Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2025

Portable Thermographic Screening for Detection of Acute Wallenberg's Syndrome
Published on: September 19, 2019
Sick Sinus Syndrome Combined with Wallenberg Syndrome: a Case Report
Sang Wan Lee1, Hojin Lee1, Jeehyun Yoo1
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Inje University Ilsan Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Goyang, Korea.
Wallenberg syndrome, a brainstem condition, can rarely cause sick sinus syndrome, a heart rhythm disorder. Early cardiac evaluation with a Holter monitor is crucial for detecting this potentially fatal complication.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
Background:
- Wallenberg syndrome involves brainstem lesions, particularly in the medulla, affecting autonomic nervous system regulation.
- Cardiac arrhythmias are an uncommon but serious manifestation of Wallenberg syndrome.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old male diagnosed with Wallenberg syndrome presented with ataxia, ptosis, sensory deficits, and dizziness.
- During conservative treatment, the patient experienced intermittent palpitations requiring cardiac assessment.
Findings:
- Brain MRI confirmed a left dorsolateral medullary infarction, consistent with Wallenberg syndrome.
- A 24-hour Holter monitor revealed significant bradycardia and prolonged sinus pauses, indicative of sick sinus syndrome.
Implications:
- This case highlights sick sinus syndrome as a rare cardiac complication of Wallenberg syndrome.
- Routine ECG may miss sick sinus syndrome; 24-hour Holter monitoring is recommended for early detection in acute Wallenberg syndrome.
- Undiagnosed sick sinus syndrome poses a risk of sudden cardiac death, necessitating prompt medical intervention.
Related Concept Videos
Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests
Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Mitral Stenosis IV: Nursing Management

