Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 4, 2025
12:46
Flow Cytometry-Based Quantification and Analysis of Myocardial B-Cells
Published on: August 17, 2022
2.9K
Diffuse B Cell Lymphoma Leading to Complete Heart Block: Is This Transient or Permanent?
Waleed K Al-Darzi1, Aeman Hana2, Marc K Lahiri1
1Division of Cardiology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA.
The American Journal of Case Reports
|October 23, 2020
Summary
Cardiac lymphoma can cause heart block, necessitating a pacemaker. Chemotherapy effectively treated the lymphoma, leading to improved heart function and reduced pacemaker dependence in this case.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Cardiac lymphomas can disrupt the heart's electrical conduction system, leading to heart block.
- Conduction abnormalities associated with cardiac tumors are often reversible with treatment.
Observation:
- A 72-year-old woman presented with complete heart block and a large cardiac mass.
- Endomyocardial biopsy confirmed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma involving the heart.
- A permanent pacemaker was implanted due to syncope from transient asystole.
Findings:
- Chemotherapy (R-CHOP) led to complete resolution of the cardiac lymphoma.
- The cardiac mass resolved on echocardiography six weeks post-chemotherapy.
- Atrioventricular nodal function improved, evidenced by a reduced pacing burden.
Implications:
- Cardiac lymphoma can cause reversible conduction abnormalities, including complete heart block.
- While pacemakers may be initially necessary, treatment can improve cardiac function.
- This case highlights the importance of considering lymphoma in cardiac masses causing conduction disturbances.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:18Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias
346
Bradyarrhythmias are cardiac rhythm disorders characterized by a slower-than-normal heart rate, typically defined as fewer than 60 beats per minute. Some of which are discussed here:Sinus BradycardiaSinus bradycardia presents a heart rate lower than 60 beats per minute, with a regular rhythm originating from the SA node. The ECG typically shows normal P waves preceding each QRS complex, a normal PR interval (0.12 to 0.20 seconds), and a normal QRS duration (0.06 to 0.10 seconds).First-Degree AV...
346
01:29Disturbances in Heart Rhythm
2.2K
Arrhythmia or dysrhythmia refers to an abnormal heart rhythm caused by a defect in the heart's conduction system. It can cause the heart to beat irregularly, too quickly, or too slowly, leading to symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and fainting. Factors such as stress, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, certain drugs, congenital defects, diseases, and electrolyte abnormalities can trigger arrhythmias.
Arrhythmias are categorized by their speed, rhythm, and origin. A slow heart...
Arrhythmias are categorized by their speed, rhythm, and origin. A slow heart...
2.2K
01:21Myocarditis I: Introduction
215
Myocarditis is inflammation of the myocardium, which is the muscular layer of the heart.EtiologyMyocarditis has a diverse etiology, including a wide range of infectious and non-infectious causes:Infectious CausesViral: Common viruses include Coxsackie A and B, adenovirus, parvovirus B19, enteroviruses, and influenza A.Bacterial: Examples include infections caused by Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Mycoplasma species.Rickettsial: Infections like Rocky Mountain spotted fever can result in...
215
01:23Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
256
Rheumatic heart disease or RHD is a chronic condition that results from rheumatic fever, causing permanent damage to the heart valves.Etiology and Risk FactorsIt primarily arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that can develop after untreated or inadequately treated group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis. Streptococcus spreads through direct contact with oral or respiratory secretions. While the bacteria are the causative agents, factors like malnutrition, overcrowding, poor...
256
01:28Mechanism of Cardiac Arrhythmias
1.5K
Arrhythmias are irregular heart rhythms occurring when the heart's electrical impulses become abnormal. These disturbances can lead to various symptoms, depending on their severity and the underlying cause. Some common factors contributing to arrhythmias include hypoxia, ischemia, electrolyte imbalances, excessive catecholamine exposure, drug toxicity, and muscle overstretching. Arrhythmias can be classified into two main types based on the rate and site of origin of abnormal heart rhythms.
1.5K
01:30Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
257
Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...
257