Brugada phenocopy: new terminology and proposed classification

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Electrophysiology
• Genetics

Background:

• Brugada syndrome is a genetic channelopathy causing dangerous heart arrhythmias, identified by specific ECG patterns.
• Brugada phenocopy refers to ECG findings similar to Brugada syndrome but without the underlying genetic cause.
• Understanding phenocopy is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of patients presenting with Brugada-like ECGs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define and categorize conditions that present as Brugada phenocopy.
• To review and classify existing literature on Brugada phenocopy based on etiological mechanisms.
• To identify knowledge gaps and suggest future research directions for Brugada phenocopy.

Main Methods:

• Extensive literature review of case reports detailing Brugada-like ECG manifestations.
• Classification of identified cases based on their suspected underlying etiological mechanisms.
• Synthesis of findings to provide a comprehensive overview of Brugada phenocopy.

Main Results:

• Numerous conditions can induce Brugada-like ECG patterns, mimicking true Brugada syndrome.
• Case reports were successfully classified according to diverse etiological factors.
• The review highlights the heterogeneity of causes contributing to Brugada phenocopy.

Conclusions:

• Brugada phenocopy is a significant clinical entity requiring careful diagnostic consideration.
• Identifying the specific etiology behind a Brugada phenocopy is essential for appropriate patient management.
• Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the mechanisms and clinical implications of Brugada phenocopy.