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Complete heart block in systemic sclerosis: A case report and literature review
Qinghai Wang1, Yinghui Shang2, Shicheng Li1
1Department of Cardiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing.
Insights
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) can cause concealed complete heart block (CHB). Pacemaker implantation may be necessary for SSc-related CHB, even in asymptomatic patients, highlighting the need for regular cardiac monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Rheumatology
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- Complete heart block (CHB) is a recognized clinical condition.
- Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an uncommon cause of CHB, often overlooked.
- The necessity of pacemaker implantation for SSc-associated CHB, particularly in asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic cases, remains unclear.
Observation:
- A 48-year-old male with SSc presented with CHB.
- Previous diagnoses included left anterior hemiblock and right bundle branch block.
- CHB was detected during routine electrocardiogram follow-up.
Findings:
- A dual-chamber pacemaker was successfully implanted.
- The patient experienced resolution of exertional dyspnea post-implantation.
- The SSc-related CHB was initially concealed, emphasizing the insidious nature of the condition.
Implications:
- Regular cardiac monitoring is crucial for patients with SSc.
- Pacemaker implantation may be an essential intervention for SSc-induced CHB, irrespective of symptom severity.
- This case underscores the importance of considering SSc as a potential cause of CHB.
Rationale:
Complete heart block (CHB) is a common clinical manifestation. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare etiology of CHB that has not received enough attention. Whether pacemaker implantation is required remains inconclusive, especially when patients have no symptoms or mild symptoms of CHB.
Patient Concerns:
In this study, we report the case of a 48-year-old Chinese male who suffers from SSc and CHB.
Diagnose:
The patient was previously diagnosed with left anterior hemiblock (LAHB) and right bundle block with normal heart function. CHB was observed on a regular follow-up electrocardiogram (ECG) examination 1 month before his hospitalization.
Interventions:
A permanent dual chamber pacemaker was implanted.
Outcomes:
The patient responded well to pacemaker implantation treatment, and his exertional dyspnea disappeared.
Lessons:
The occurrence of heart block associated with SSc often appears concealed. The case highlights the importance of regular follow-up of a patient with SSc. Pacemaker implantation might be unavoidable if CHB is secondary to SSc, even if it is asymptomatic.
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