1.Atrioventricular nodal re‑entrant tachycardia with a 2:1 atrioventricular block in a young man: What is the mechanism?
Javier PINOS ; Diego Serrano PIEDRA
International Journal of Arrhythmia 2024;25(2):7-
A 16-year-old man presented with short VA supraventricular tachycardia and 2:1 atrioventricular ratio. The correct maneuvers allowed us to guide not only the mechanism but also the probable location of the atrioventricular block.
2.Bundle branch reentrant ventricular tachycardia in a patient with Fabry disease
Wassim BELADEL ; Mehdi ABDELALI ; Oussama CHEIKHNA ; Karim HASNI ; Mohamed El MINAOUI
International Journal of Arrhythmia 2024;25(2):6-
Background:
Bundle branch reentrant ventricular tachycardia is a unique type of VT that employs both bundles and the ventricular septum as integral components of a re-entrant circuit. It is usually observed in dilated cardiomyopathy, and its circuit depends exclusively on the specialized conduction system.Case presentation A 67-year-old man with a history of Fabry disease, and atrial fibrillation ablation, was admitted for a wide QRS tachycardia at 150 bpm, with an LBBB. Pharmacological therapy failed to stop the arrhythmia. Intracardiac recordings confirm the diagnosis. His Bundle recordings are essential, and Atrioventricular (AV) dissociation is typically present. The method used to induce left BBRVT is right ventricle apex stimulation. An electrophysiological study showed an AV dissociation a long HV sequence and a similar QRS morphology between VT and sinus rhythm. An overdrive stopped it. The same arrhythmia reappears and is restored to sinus rhythm by electrical cardioversion.We decided to implant an Implantable Cardiac defibrillator (ICD) with a backup pacing for secondary prevention and to ablate the right bundle branch.
Conclusion
BBRVT is a rare entity that is underreported. Pharmacological therapy is usually inefficient. An ICD is recommended for secondary prevention and can provide backup pacing, frequently required after catheter ablation to prevent the development of AV block or an excessive prolonged HV interval. Catheter ablation of the bundle branch is the first-line therapy.
3.The unexpected complications of the left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) maneuver:a case report
Soyoon PARK ; Young CHOI ; Yong‑Seog OH ; Sung‑Hwan KIM
International Journal of Arrhythmia 2024;25(2):9-
Background:
The lead of left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) inserted into the muscular septum will make the transvenous lead extraction (TLE) of LBBAP more challenging and because in LBBAP ventricular lead (V lead) should be inserted into the part of the septum, damage to the vessel near the lead could occur. The case reports introduced the complications of LBBAP previously introduced, but not being considered in detail.Case presentation The two patients (76-year-old man, 90-year-old man) with a complete atrioventricular block (CAVB) undergoing the LBBAP procedure experienced complications related to the procedure. The complications were abrupt dysfunction of V lead and damage to the septal vein in the process of the procedure, respectively. Fortu‑ nately, they were discharged without any other complications.
Conclusions
A deliberate approach for the procedure would be needed as well as successful insertion appropriate for the protocol of LBBAP. And long-term follow-up of complications should be needed.
4.Cardiac repolarization abnormalities and neurally mediated syncope: overlooked aspects in the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma
Elisama Pimentel Zamian COTIAS ; Jorge Elias NETO ; Luiz Fernando Mazzini GOMES ; Erick Sessa MERÇON ; Ricardo KUNIYOSHI ; Márcio Augusto SILVA
International Journal of Arrhythmia 2024;25(2):8-
Background:
Pheochromocytoma is a rare catecholamine-producing tumour originating from adrenal chromaffin cells. Classic clinical presentation includes headache, diaphoresis and palpitation. Syncope is uncommon and may result from hypotension or arrhythmia. We report a case of neurally mediated syncope in pheochromocytoma associated with cardiac repolarization abnormalities, a unique presentation of the disease.Case presentation This case report presents a 28 year-old woman, describing recurrent syncope usually preceded by prodromes such as headache, visual blurring, heart palpitations and psychomotor agitation. Firstly she was diagnosed with anxiety and depression, but there was no improvement of symptoms with psychiatric treatment. Previous Holter revealed long QT interval. Echocardiogram showed normal dimensions, preserved left ventricular function and no valvopathies. The patient was referred for a Head-up tilt test (HUTT) in order to investigate reflex syncope. The electrocardiogram (ECG) exhibited normal sinus rhythm and diffuse cardiac repolarisation abnormalities. HUTT was positive for vasodepressor type neurally mediated syncope and ECG showed U waves after a syncope episode.This electrocardiographic finding motivated further clinical investigation. The patient also described abdominal pain, increased abdominal volume, weight loss and blood pressure instability. Based on clinical history and ventricular repolarisation abnormalities uncovered by HUTT, pheochromocytoma was suspected. Urinary test was positive for catecholamines and the abdominal imaging revelead expansive lesion. She underwent surgery to remove the pheochromocytoma, confirmed by immunohistochemistry.
Conclusions
After surgery she had no recurrency of symptoms, remaining asymptomatic after six years of follow-up, suggesting a cause-effect relationship between neurally mediated syncope and pheochromocytoma.
5.Systematic review of validation studies for the use of wearable smartwatches in the screening of atrial fibrillation
Muhammad Samsoor ZARAK ; Sher Ali KHAN ; Harris MAJEED ; Abdul Qahar Khan YASINZAI ; Wadana HAMZAZAI ; Duy CHUNG ; Gregory KOSHKARIAN ; Kevin S. FLEMING
International Journal of Arrhythmia 2024;25(2):11-
WSWs have the potential to reliably and continuously screen for AFib and detect it in a timely manner.The inconclusive results produced by WSWs are a significant problem. Once the inconclusive results are rectified, WSWs may be used for widespread screening of AFib in those people who are at high risk of developing AFib.
6.Role of anticoagulation with apixaban in left‑sided atrial tachycardias
Fraz Ahmed BAIG ; Muhammad Syed ANWAR ; Muhammad Firdous KHAN ; Aroon KUMAR ; F. N. U. MUSKAN ; Jiyanth PARKASH ; Ali KARIM ; Iftikhar AHMED ; Waheed AKHTAR ; Jahanzeb MALIK
International Journal of Arrhythmia 2024;25(2):10-
Background:
Atrial tachycardia poses challenges in patient management due to the associated risks of stroke and systemic embolism. While anticoagulation is recommended in atrial fibrillation (AF), its role in atrial tachycardia remains less defined. This prospective study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of apixaban, a direct oral anticoagulant, in individuals diagnosed with left-sided atrial tachycardias.
Methods:
Patients diagnosed with left-sided atrial tachycardia (n = 439) were observed over 3 years. Baseline characteristics, medication regimens, and clinical outcomes were assessed. Apixaban-treated individuals (n = 213) received standard or reduced dosages, while the control group (n = 226) received standard care. Primary outcomes included stroke, systemic embolism, bleeding, and mortality rates.
Results:
Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. The apixaban cohort showed a lower incidence of stroke (7.0% vs. 9.3%, p = 0.027) and decreased all-cause mortality (11.7% vs. 12.8%, p = 0.012) compared to controls.No significant differences were found in major bleeding or systemic embolization between groups.
Conclusion
Apixaban demonstrated a potential benefit in reducing stroke and mortality rates in patients with leftsided atrial tachycardia. While requiring further validation, these findings suggest a potential role for apixaban in anticoagulation strategies for atrial tachycardia management.
7.Inflammation and arrhythmogenesis:a narrative review of the complex relationship
International Journal of Arrhythmia 2024;25(1):4-
Background:
A biological mechanism called inflammation is necessary for reacting to damaging stimuli, but it can also, ironically, play a role in the formation of arrhythmias, or the group of disorders known as arrhythmogenesis. This review delves into the intricate relationship that exists between localized and systemic inflammation and the electrophysiological changes that result in abnormal heart rhythms.Main body Through oxidative stress, autonomic dysfunction, electrolyte imbalances, and coagulation activation, systemic inflammation may impact arrhythmogenicity. Similar to neuropathic alterations, direct cellular damage, and structural remodeling, localized heart inflammation also predisposes to arrhythmias. Studies demonstrating the impact of cytokines on ion channel expression and function, along with clinical associations between inflammatory indicators and arrhythmia incidence, offer the molecular insights. Immune cells like macrophages that alter cardiac conduction are involved in the interaction between inflammation and electrophysiology, which further complicates the situation. Clinical ramifications include the use of anti-inflammatory drugs to treat arrhythmic episodes and the possible adjustment of arrhythmia treatment based on inflammatory condition. Even yet, further thorough study is necessary to fully understand the efficacy of these medicines.
Conclusions
Arrhythmogenesis and inflammation are inherently linked by a number of mechanisms that change the electrical characteristics of the heart. Arrhythmia treatment and prevention may benefit from therapeutic approaches that reduce inflammatory processes. The difficulties that still exist in applying this information to clinical settings highlight the necessity of continuing studies to better comprehend the subtleties of inflammation-induced electrical alterations. Progress in identifying biomarkers of inflammation and developing tailored therapies will be crucial in enhancing the prognosis of individuals suffering from arrhythmogenic disorders that are aggravated by inflammation.
8.SGLT2 inhibitors and the cardiac rhythm: unraveling the connections
Aritra PAUL ; Chadi TABAJA ; Oussama WAZNI
International Journal of Arrhythmia 2024;25(1):2-
Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is), primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus, have recently gained attention for their potential cardiovascular benefits. This review explores the emerging evidence surrounding the association between SGLT2is and arrhythmias. Initial studies and large cardiovascular outcome trials have indicated that SGLT2is may reduce major adverse cardiovascular events, including HFHs, which inherently suggests a potential anti-arrhythmic role. Mechanistic insights propose that SGLT2is may exert their anti-arrhythmic effects by modulating cardiac ion channels, thereby impacting cardiac action potentials. Direct clinical evidence linking SGLT2 is to reduced arrhythmias remains limited but evolving. Potential implications of these findings could revolutionize treatment approaches, expanding the indications for SGLT2is prescriptions beyond the diabetic population and possibly providing a novel therapeutic avenue for patients at risk of arrhythmias. However, the exact mechanism, efficacy, and safety profile need further investigation. While various post-hoc and meta-analyses shed light on the topic, prospective, randomized controlled trials are warranted to explicate the potential of SGLT2is in arrhythmia management, their place in clinical guidelines, and their overall impact on patient outcomes.
9.Sex‑related differences of fatty acid‑binding protein 4 and leptin levels in atrial fibrillation: an updated review
Shahab SAIDULLAH ; Binish Ayub AHMAD ; Muhammad Saad WAQAS ; Anam FATIMA ; Malik Hasnat ul Hassan KHAN ; Umer KHIYAM ; Jahanzeb MALIK
International Journal of Arrhythmia 2024;25(1):1-
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia affecting millions of individuals worldwide and posing significant challenges to healthcare systems. The growing body of research has uncovered sex-related differences in AF pathophysiology, including the role of fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) and leptin as potential biomarkers. FABP4 and leptin, key adipokines involved in cardiovascular health, have been linked to inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction, all of which may contribute to AF development. These adipokines exhibit sex-specific differences in their concentrations, with females generally showing higher FABP4 levels and males displaying distinct leptin profiles. Furthermore, hormonal influences, particularly estrogen, and testosterone, play significant roles in shaping AF risk and atrial remodeling. Estrogen is associated with cardioprotective effects, while testosterone may exert proarrhythmic effects. Understanding these sex-specific mechanisms could lead to more tailored and effective clinical management of AF. The future of AF research holds promise for precision medicine, novel therapeutic targets, artificial intelligence integration, and personalized care approaches. Emphasizing patient-centered care, telemedicine, and multidisciplinary collaboration can further enhance AF management and improve patient outcomes. In conclusion, recognizing and addressing sex-related factors in AF pathophysiology offer opportunities for gender-responsive interventions and advancements in AF management. Implementing these insights may pave the way for targeted therapies and improved quality of life for individuals affected by AF.
10.One‑year outcomes of anterior–posterior vs. anterior‑lateral method of cardioversion for atrial fibrillation: a tertiary center experience
Sarim RASHID ; Syed Ahmed SALAHUDDIN ; Fatima SAJID ; Syed Yasir SHAH ; Jahanzeb MALIK ; Saifullah KHAN
International Journal of Arrhythmia 2024;25(1):3-
This retrospective cohort study aimed to compare the one-year outcomes of anterior–posterior (AP) and anterior— lateral (AL) methods of cardioversion for atrial fibrillation (AF). A total of 2168 patients were included, with 1125 patients in the AP cardioversion group (Group 1) and 1043 patients in the AL cardioversion group (Group 2). Baseline characteristics, primary and secondary outcomes, safety outcomes, and logistic regression predictors of sinus rhythm were analyzed. The results showed comparable rates of maintaining sinus rhythm at the one-year follow-up between the two groups (65.8% in Group 1 vs. 65.7% in Group 2, p = 0.042). There were no significant differences in the incidence of AF recurrence or safety outcomes between the groups. Logistic regression analysis identified the duration of AF and the presence of coronary artery disease as significant predictors of sinus rhythm maintenance. Additionally, the use of the AL method was associated with a higher likelihood of AF recurrence compared to the AP method (p = 0.043). These findings suggest that both the AP and AL methods of cardioversion are effective in achieving and maintaining sinus rhythm in AF patients. The duration of AF and the presence of coronary artery disease should be considered when selecting the cardioversion approach. These results contribute to the understanding of optimal treatment strategies for AF and support personalized management decisions based on individual patient characteristics.

Result Analysis
Print
Save
E-mail