Stress Test-Induced Left Bundle Branch Block

Mackenzie D Hamilton1, Ebubechukwu Ezeh1, Mohamed Suliman1

  • 1Internal Medicine, Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Huntington, USA.

Cureus
|September 29, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Left bundle branch block (LBBB) is a rare complication during myocardial perfusion imaging with Regadenoson. This event may indicate underlying coronary artery disease or conduction issues, aiding in patient diagnosis and risk stratification.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Nuclear Medicine
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

  • Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is crucial for diagnosing coronary artery disease.
  • Regadenoson, a selective A2A adenosine receptor agonist, is commonly used as a vasodilator in MPI.
  • Complications of Regadenoson use, though rare, require careful consideration.

Observation:

  • Left bundle branch block (LBBB) is an infrequent complication observed during Regadenoson-induced stress MPI.
  • The precise mechanism linking Regadenoson and LBBB development is not fully elucidated.
  • Potential mechanisms may involve ongoing myocardial ischemia during the stress test.

Findings:

  • The occurrence of LBBB following Regadenoson administration in MPI is uncommon.
  • This specific complication might serve as a potential indicator of significant coronary artery disease.
  • LBBB during Regadenoson MPI could also suggest pre-existing cardiac conduction abnormalities.

Implications:

  • Physicians must be aware of LBBB as a possible complication of Regadenoson MPI.
  • Recognizing this event can aid in the accurate diagnosis of coronary artery disease.
  • Understanding this association is vital for appropriate risk stratification of patients undergoing MPI.

Related Concept Videos

Exercise Stress Test01:26

Exercise Stress Test

Introduction
Exercise stress testing, commonly known as a treadmill test, is a noninvasive procedure used to evaluate cardiovascular function and diagnose heart conditions.
Definition
An exercise stress test measures the heart's response to exertion using a treadmill or stationary bicycle. Chest electrodes record the heart's electrical activity through an ECG, and blood pressure is monitored regularly.
Purposes
588
Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias01:18

Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias

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...
178
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction01:22

Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction

Mitral Valve Stenosis (MVS) is a heart condition where the mitral valve narrows, impeding blood circulation from the left atrium to the left ventricle. The etiology and pathophysiology of this condition are multifaceted, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular complications.Causes of Mitral Valve StenosisRheumatic Heart Disease: It is the main cause of mitral valve stenosis, particularly in developing nations. This condition arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness resulting from...
83
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests01:23

Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests

Mitral stenosis is a heart condition in which the mitral valve, which allows blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle, becomes narrowed or stenotic. This narrowing hinders blood flow and leads to clinical symptoms requiring specific medical evaluations and management strategies. The following overview outlines the clinical symptoms, assessments, diagnostic findings, prevention methods, and treatments for mitral stenosis.Clinical ManifestationsDyspnea (shortness of breath): This...
47
Cardiac Catheterization III: Left Heart Catheterization01:24

Cardiac Catheterization III: Left Heart Catheterization

Left heart catheterization is an invasive diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the function and structure of the left side of the heart. It is generally performed to diagnose and treat cardiovascular conditions such as valve abnormalities, coronary artery disease, and congenital heart defects.Diagnostic and therapeutic purposesLeft heart catheterization serves various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:Assessing coronary artery bypass grafts.Evaluating coronary artery disease in...
277
Disturbances in Heart Rhythm01:29

Disturbances in Heart Rhythm

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...
1.6K