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Published on: May 5, 2018
Cardiac manifestations of inborn errors of metabolism
A Evangeliou1, K Papadopoulou-Legbelou, E Daphnis
1Department of Pediatrics and Internal Medicine, University Hospital, Crete, Greece. evangeli@med.uoc.gr
Insights
Cardiac manifestations are frequently observed in patients with inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs). Early recognition of these heart conditions is crucial for diagnosing IEMs, especially when neurological symptoms are mild.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) are a group of genetic disorders that can affect multiple organ systems.
- Cardiac manifestations are not always recognized as a key diagnostic indicator for IEMs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency and types of cardiac manifestations in patients with potential IEMs.
- To evaluate the role of cardiac symptoms in the diagnosis of IEMs in clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 287 patients with potential IEMs was analyzed.
- Cardiac assessments were performed, identifying conditions such as cardiomyopathy, cardiomegaly, and conduction disorders.
Main Results:
- 41 patients exhibited cardiac manifestations.
- A diagnosis of IEM was confirmed in 15 of these 41 patients.
- In 6 patients, cardiovascular symptoms were the primary presentation, with 7 adults having childhood-onset symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Cardiac findings are an underappreciated aspect of IEM diagnosis.
- Collaboration between various medical specialists is essential for managing patients with unexplained cardiac symptoms and potential IEMs.
- Several IEMs are associated with cardiac abnormalities, underscoring the need for cardiac screening.
Aim:
The aim of the study was to investigate the frequency and type of cardiac manifestations in a defined group of patients with inborn errors of metabolism. This paper also explores the key role of cardiac manifestations in the diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism in daily practice.
Methods:
Out of the 287 patients with the potential for inborn errors of metabolism who had been referred to the University Hospital of Heraklion (202 children and adolescents and 85 adults), 41 were found to have a variety of cardiac manifestations, including cardiomyopathy, cardiomegaly, atrioventricular conduction disorders and coronary artery disease.
Results:
In 15 out of the 41 patients a diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism was established, while the total number of patients with inborn errors of metabolism was 60 out of the 287. In 6 out of the 15 patients the major symptoms were from the cardiovascular system and 7 of them were adults with symptoms initiating in childhood.
Conclusion:
The cardiac findings consist of a neglected area in the diagnosis of the inborn errors of metabolism. Neurologists, pediatricians and internists should cooperate with cardiologists in managing people with unexplained cardiac symptoms and signs and be aware that several inborn errors of metabolism are associated with cardiac abnormalities and mild neurologic findings.
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