Inappropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator shock due to external alternating current leak: report of two cases.

Two cases are reported of inappropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator shocks due to external alternating current leak. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) can mimic cardiac signals and cause inappropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) shocks. EMI can arise from the normal functioning of electrical appliances or from alternating current leak. The two cases had inappropriate ICD shocks due to alternating current leak from a power drill in one and a washing machine in the other. The need for detailed advice on handling electrical equipment is emphasized.