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Transient complete heart block complicating acute rheumatic fever
Javid A Malik1, C Hassan, G Q Khan
1Department of Medicine, Government Medical College and Associated SMHS Hospital, Srinagar.
Indian Heart Journal
|May 10, 2002
Summary
Acute rheumatic fever can cause heart block, a rare but serious complication. This case shows a teenager who temporarily developed complete heart block from rheumatic fever, recovering spontaneously.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Rheumatology
Background:
- First-degree heart block is a recognized electrocardiographic finding in acute rheumatic fever, included in diagnostic criteria.
- Various other electrocardiographic abnormalities like sinus tachycardia and premature complexes are reported with acute rheumatic fever.
Observation:
- A 16-year-old male presented with acute rheumatic fever.
- Initial electrocardiogram showed a prolonged P-R interval, indicative of first-degree heart block.
- The patient's condition progressed to complete heart block.
Findings:
- Complete heart block is an exceptionally rare manifestation of acute rheumatic fever.
- The patient experienced a transient episode of complete heart block.
- Normal sinus rhythm was restored spontaneously within minutes without medical intervention.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for severe cardiac conduction abnormalities in acute rheumatic fever.
- It underscores the importance of vigilant electrocardiographic monitoring in patients with acute rheumatic fever.
- The spontaneous resolution suggests a potentially reversible mechanism of conduction disturbance in this context.