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Complete heart block in rheumatoid arthritis.
C G Bahuleyan1, A G Koshy, K P Bhuvaneswaran
1Department of Cardiology, Medical College Hospital, Trivandrum.
Summary
This case report details rheumatoid arthritis associated with complete atrioventricular (AV) heart block. It highlights a rare cardiac complication of this autoimmune disease.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Cardiology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease primarily affecting joints.
- Cardiac manifestations in RA, though known, are less common than joint involvement.
- Atrioventricular (AV) heart block is a significant cardiac conduction abnormality.
Observation:
- A specific case of rheumatoid arthritis presenting with complete AV heart block is described.
- The clinical presentation and diagnostic findings of this rare association are detailed.
- The patient's specific clinical course and management are outlined.
Findings:
- The case confirms a link between rheumatoid arthritis and complete AV heart block.
- Review of existing literature suggests this is an uncommon but serious complication.
- Pathophysiological mechanisms potentially linking RA to cardiac conduction defects are discussed.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of cardiac evaluation in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- Early recognition and management of AV heart block in RA may improve patient outcomes.
- Further research into the cardiac implications of rheumatoid arthritis is warranted.