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Belhassen Ventricular Tachycardia in a Child
Brojendra Agarwala1, Frank J Zimmerman1
1Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Cardiology, University of Chicago Medicine and Advocate Children's Heart Institute, Oak Lawn, IL, USA.
The Journal of Innovations in Cardiac Rhythm Management
|March 3, 2021
Summary
Idiopathic left ventricular tachycardia (VT) of the Belhassen type, characterized by a right bundle branch pattern on ECG, was diagnosed in a 15-year-old male. This case highlights the importance of ECG in identifying this rare VT during routine evaluations.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Pediatric Cardiology
Background:
- Idiopathic left ventricular tachycardia (VT) of the Belhassen type is a rare arrhythmia.
- It is typically diagnosed via electrocardiography (ECG) showing a right bundle branch block pattern and left axis deviation.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old Hispanic male presented for a routine ECG to support sports participation.
- Initial evaluation, including physical examination and echocardiogram, was normal.
- During preparation for an exercise treadmill test, the ECG revealed sustained monomorphic VT.
Findings:
- The ECG findings included a right bundle branch block pattern and a superior QRS axis.
- These findings were consistent with the diagnosis of Belhassen VT.
- The VT was initially nonsustained but later became sustained.
Implications:
- This case underscores the utility of ECG in diagnosing Belhassen VT, even in asymptomatic young individuals.
- Early identification of Belhassen VT is crucial for appropriate management and preventing adverse events.
- Routine ECG screening may be valuable in identifying individuals at risk for this condition.