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'Sinus node' dysfunction associated with left atrial isomerism.
Paolo Ferrero1, Riccardo Massa, Claudia Amellone
1Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Turin, San Giovanni Battista Hospital, Turin, Italy. ferpaolo77@libero.it
Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine (Hagerstown, Md.)
|August 13, 2008
Summary
Left atrial isomerism, a rare congenital heart defect, can cause sinus bradycardia and necessitate pacemaker implantation. This case highlights the importance of recognizing atrial isomerism in patients with cardiac conduction abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Congenital Heart Disease
Background:
- Eterotaxic syndromes include left and right atrial isomerism, affecting atrial anatomy and potentially the conduction system.
- Prognosis in these syndromes is linked to the severity of associated intracardiac defects.
Observation:
- A case report details a patient with lifelong asymptomatic sinus bradycardia.
- The patient was referred for pacemaker implantation.
- Diagnosis of left atrial isomerism was established during the evaluation.
Findings:
- Left atrial isomerism can present with significant conduction abnormalities, such as sinus bradycardia.
- Congenital heart disease, including atrial isomerism, requires careful management of associated arrhythmias.
Implications:
- This case offers insights into the clinical presentation and management of arrhythmias in patients with congenital heart disease.
- Understanding atrial isomerism is crucial for diagnosing and treating cardiac conduction disorders in affected individuals.
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