Lyme carditis: indications for cardiac pacing

K S Nagi1, R K Thakur

  • 1Arrhythmia Service, University Hospital, London, Ontario.

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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