High-degree atrioventricular block in COVID-19 hospitalized patients

Lilas Dagher1, Bassam Wanna1, Ghiath Mikdadi2

  • 1Tulane University, Heart and Vascular Institute, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.

Insights

COVID-19 can cause heart rhythm problems. This study found that some patients developed temporary high-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, which resolved without permanent pacemakers, suggesting conservative management for these cardiac complications.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Virology

Background:

  • The novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, is known to impact the cardiovascular system.
  • Cardiac arrhythmias are frequently observed in patients hospitalized with COVID-19.

Observation:

  • This case series details four patients with COVID-19 who experienced a transient high-degree atrioventricular (AV) block during hospitalization.
  • None of the four patients required permanent pacing for their condition.

Findings:

  • High-degree atrioventricular (AV) block associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection appears to be transient.
  • The observed AV blocks did not necessitate long-term cardiac pacing.

Implications:

  • Conservative management strategies are recommended for COVID-19 patients presenting with complete heart block.
  • The transient nature of AV block in these cases suggests a likely reversible cause, possibly related to the viral infection itself.
Abstract

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