Electrical storm in children

Henning Clausen1, Andreas Pflaumer, Suleman Kamberi

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Australia.

Insights

Electrical storm (ES) in children is rare and challenging to manage, often requiring individualized treatment. This study characterized pediatric ES, finding diverse causes and successful outcomes with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Electrophysiology
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • Electrical storm (ES) is a significant clinical challenge, primarily documented in adults.
  • Limited data exists on the characteristics and management of ES specifically in pediatric populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize electrical storm in children.
  • To guide management strategies for pediatric ES based on institutional experience and literature review.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of four pediatric patients with ES (2001-2011).
  • Systematic literature review of 47 pediatric ES cases.
  • Evaluation of patient demographics, ES characteristics, management, and outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Four pediatric patients identified (median age 5.7 years); ES varied in character and management.
  • All patients survived with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators at median 5.7-year follow-up.
  • Identified etiologies included catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, Long QT syndrome, and Torsades de Pointes; iatrogenic factors were noted in 3/4 patients.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric electrical storm is a rare emergency with diverse etiologies.
  • Individualized management approaches are crucial for pediatric ES.
  • Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators appear effective in managing pediatric ES.

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