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Lyme carditis: indications for cardiac pacing
1Arrhythmia Service, University Hospital, London, Ontario.
Abstract:
Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. It is the most common reported vector-borne illness in the United States. The clinical course of Lyme disease is divided into early and late phases. Early disease may be limited or disseminated. Generally, cardiac complications occur in the early disseminated phase. Disturbance of atrioventricular conduction is the most commonly recognized cardiac manifestation of Lyme disease. This is usually self-limited and does not require permanent cardiac pacing. A case of Lyme carditis with atrioventricular block requiring permanent pacing is reported and the indications for cardiac pacing in this disease are reviewed.
Insights
Lyme carditis, a heart complication of Lyme disease, can rarely require permanent pacing. This case reviews indications for cardiac pacing in Lyme disease patients.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Tick-Borne Illnesses
Background:
- Lyme disease, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, is a prevalent vector-borne illness in the US.
- It presents in early and late phases, with cardiac complications typically in the early disseminated stage.
- Atrioventricular conduction disturbance is the most common cardiac manifestation, usually resolving without intervention.
Observation:
- A rare case of Lyme carditis presented with atrioventricular block.
- This specific case necessitated permanent cardiac pacing.
Findings:
- Lyme carditis can lead to severe atrioventricular block.
- Permanent cardiac pacing may be required in select cases of Lyme carditis.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering permanent pacing for Lyme carditis.
- Understanding indications for pacing is crucial for managing severe Lyme disease cardiac manifestations.
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