A case of post-ablation chest pain: Navigating the diagnostic dilemma

Heart Rhythm O2 2026 Open access

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Authors: Changjian He, Tianze Guo, Wenchang Zhang, Yunhe Bai, Yalei Han, Chunhua Ding
DOI: 10.1016/j.hroo.2026.01.021
Cited by: 0
References: 5

Abstract

Post-cardiac injury syndrome (PCIS) is an underrecognized inflammatory complication of atrial fibrillation ablation that can mimic acute coronary syndrome. We present a 72-year-old man who developed pleuritic chest pain and pleural effusions 3 days after radiofrequency ablation. Using the 2025 European Society of Cardiology diagnostic criteria, we identified pleural-predominant PCIS. Anti-inflammatory treatment led to rapid recovery.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Atrial Fibrillation Management and Outcomes Cardiac Arrhythmias and Treatments Pericarditis and Cardiac Tamponade

Publication details

Journal / source
Heart Rhythm O2
Volume
7
Issue
4
Pages
802–806
Publication date
28 January 2026
Language
EN