Dysrhythmia-induced sudden death, termed "sudden sniffing death syndrome," is well described phenomena due to inhalant (chlorinated and aromatic hydrocarbon) abuse.
The common theory behind the syndrome is cardiac sensitization that increases susceptibility of the heart to systemic catecholamines (epinephrine, norepinephrine, etc). Usually, it occurs after an episode of exertion in that any excess catecholamine exposure causes irritability of the myocardium, resulting in dysrhythmias (V. fib, V. tach) and cardiac arrest.
If acute dysrhythmias is due to myocardial sensitization, sympathomimectis should be avoided. Beta-adrenergic antagonist can be used for the catecholamine-sensitized heart.
