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Hereditary atrioventricular conduction defect in a child
S M Balderston1, E M Shaffer, H M Sondheimer
1Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Children's Hospital, Denver, Colorado 80218-1088.
Insights
Hereditary atrioventricular conduction defects can cause complete heart block in children, sometimes presenting with seizures. Early examination of family members is crucial for identifying potential conduction abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Hereditary atrioventricular conduction defects are rare causes of acquired complete heart block in pediatric patients.
- Complete heart block can present with diverse initial symptoms, including neurological manifestations.
Observation:
- A familial case of acquired complete heart block is presented, involving a father and son.
- Both individuals experienced seizures as the primary symptom leading to the diagnosis of complete heart block.
Findings:
- The study reviews variations of hereditary atrioventricular conduction defects and associated histopathological findings.
- The father and son required permanent pacemaker implantation due to their condition.
Implications:
- Screening family members of patients with unexplained acquired heart block is recommended.
- Early detection of conduction abnormalities can prevent progression to complete heart block and associated complications.
Abstract:
Hereditary atrioventricular conduction defect is an uncommon cause of acquired complete heart block in children. We report a father and son, both of whom presented with seizures as the initial manifestation of acquired complete heart block and required permanent pacemaker implantation. A review of the variations of this entity and the histopathological findings of previously reported cases is presented. Family members of patients with acquired heart block of uncertain etiology should be examined for the presence of conduction abnormalities that may progress to complete heart block.