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Published on: December 11, 2017
Cardiac pacing in the management of severe pallid breath-holding attacks
Dyanne Wilson1, Philip Moore, A Kirsten Finucane
1Greenlane Paediatric and Congenital Cardiac Services, Starship Childrens Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand. da.wilson@auckland.ac.nz
Insights
Pacemaker insertion effectively managed severe reflex anoxic seizures in an infant, completely stopping syncope and seizures. This intervention significantly improved the child's and family's quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Cardiology
- Autonomic Nervous System Disorders
Background:
- Reflex anoxic seizures (RAS), also known as pallid breath-holding attacks, are typically managed with reassurance.
- Severe or frequent episodes of syncope and seizure activity in RAS may necessitate intervention.
Observation:
- A 19-month-old infant presented with a history of severe reflex anoxic seizures.
- The infant underwent pacemaker insertion due to the severity and frequency of syncopal and seizure events.
Findings:
- Pacemaker insertion resulted in the complete cessation of syncope and seizures in the infant.
- The intervention led to a significant improvement in the patient's and family's quality of life.
Implications:
- Pacemaker insertion is presented as a viable and effective treatment option for severe reflex anoxic seizures.
- This case report and literature review support the consideration of pacemaker implantation for refractory RAS.
- Further research into the long-term efficacy and safety of pacemakers for RAS is warranted.
Abstract:
Reflex anoxic seizures (pallid breath-holding attacks) can be managed with reassurance in the majority of individuals. In a minority of cases where frequent syncopal and seizure activity occurs, intervention needs to be considered. We report a case of a 19-month infant with a history of severe reflex anoxic seizures who underwent pacemaker insertion with a spectacular result, with complete termination of syncope and seizures, and improvement in quality of life for the patient and family. A literature review of the safety and effectiveness of pacemaker insertion is also presented to support its use as a treatment option for this condition.
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