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Wegner LS, Steinhard J, Frank T, Laser KT, Kubiak K. Fetal Long QT Syndrome - Challenges in Perinatal Management: A Review and Case Report. Induction of Labor and Vaginal Birth Under Continuous Magnesium Therapy. Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol 2024; 228:328-339. [PMID: 38387612 DOI: 10.1055/a-2231-9348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Congenital LQTS is an often undetected inherited cardiac channel dysfunction and can be a reason for intrauterine fetal demise. It can present in utero as CTG and ultrasound abnormalities, i. e., bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia, or fetal hydrops. Diagnosis is made by CTG, echocardiography, or fMCG. Intrauterine therapy with a ß blocker and i. v. magnesium should be started. Our objective was to examine the current knowledge about diagnosis and treatment of LQTS and in particular to highlight the opportunity of vaginal birth under continuous intravenous magnesium therapy. Therefore, a thorough MEDLINE and Google Scholar search was conducted. Randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, prospective and retrospective cohort trials, and case reports were considered. We showed the possibility of vaginal delivery under continuous magnesium therapy in a case of suspected fetal LQTS. A stepwise concept for diagnosis, monitoring, and peripartum management in low, intermediate, and high risk cases of fetal LQTS is presented. If risk is low or intermediate, a vaginal delivery under continuous monitoring is reasonable. Induction of labor at term should be evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Sarah Wegner
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Franziskus-Hospital Münster GmbH, Münster, Germany
| | - Johannes Steinhard
- Department of Fetal Cardiology, Heart and Diabetes Center, Bad Oeynhausen Hospital, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Thomas Frank
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, St. Franziskus-Hospital Münster GmbH, Münster, Germany
| | - Kai Thorsten Laser
- Department of Fetal Cardiology, Heart and Diabetes Center, Bad Oeynhausen Hospital, Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
| | - Karol Kubiak
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Franziskus-Hospital Münster GmbH, Münster, Germany
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2
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Backley S, Bergh EP, Garnett J, Li R, Maroufy V, Jain R, Fletcher S, Tsao K, Austin M, Johnson A, Papanna R. Fetal cardiovascular changes during open and fetoscopic in-utero spina bifida closure. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2024; 64:193-202. [PMID: 38207160 DOI: 10.1002/uog.27579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fetoscopic closure of spina bifida using heated and humidified carbon dioxide gas (hhCO2) has been associated with lower maternal morbidity compared with open closure. Fetal cardiovascular changes during these surgical interventions are poorly defined. Our objective was to compare fetal bradycardia (defined as fetal heart rate (FHR) < 110 bpm for 10 min) and changes in umbilical artery (UA) Doppler parameters during open vs fetoscopic closure. METHODS This was a prospective cohort study of 22 open and 46 fetoscopic consecutive in-utero closures conducted between 2019 and 2023. Both cohorts had similar preoperative counseling and clinical management. FHR and UA Doppler velocimetry were obtained systematically during preoperative assessment, every 5 min during the intraoperative period, and during the postoperative assessment. FHR, UA pulsatility index (PI) and UA end-diastolic flow (EDF) were segmented into hourly periods during surgery, and the lowest values were averaged for analysis. Umbilical vein maximum velocity was measured in the fetoscopic cohort. At each timepoint at which FHR was recorded, maternal heart rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured. RESULTS Fetal bradycardia occurred in 4/22 (18.2%) cases of open closure and 21/46 (45.7%) cases of fetoscopic closure (P = 0.03). FHR decreased gradually in both cohorts after administration of general anesthesia and decreased further during surgery. FHR was significantly lower during hour 2 of surgery in the fetoscopic-repair cohort compared with the open-repair cohort. The change in FHR from baseline in the final stage of fetal surgery was significantly more pronounced in the fetoscopic-repair cohort compared with the open-repair cohort (mean, -32.4 (95% CI, -35.7 to -29.1) bpm vs -23.5 (95% CI, -28.1 to -18.8) bpm; P = 0.002). Abnormal UA-EDF (defined as absent or reversed EDF) occurred in 3/22 (13.6%) cases in the open-repair cohort and 23/46 (50.0%) cases in the fetoscopic-repair cohort (P = 0.004). There were no differences in UA-EDF or UA-PI between closure techniques at the individual stages of assessment. CONCLUSIONS We observed a decrease in FHR and abnormalities in UA Doppler parameters during both open and fetoscopic spina bifida closure. Fetal bradycardia was more prominent during fetoscopic closure following hhCO2 insufflation, but FHR recovered after cessation of hhCO2. Changes in FHR and UA Doppler parameters during in-utero spina bifida closure were transient, no cases required emergency delivery and no fetoscopic closure was converted to open closure. These observations should inform algorithms for the perioperative management of fetal bradycardia associated with in-utero spina bifida closure. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Backley
- Division of Fetal Intervention, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- The Fetal Center at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - E P Bergh
- Division of Fetal Intervention, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- The Fetal Center at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - J Garnett
- Division of Fetal Intervention, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- The Fetal Center at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - R Li
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
| | - V Maroufy
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, UTHealth School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
| | - R Jain
- The Fetal Center at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Division of Pediatric Anesthesia, Department of Anesthesiology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - S Fletcher
- The Fetal Center at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Department of Pediatric Surgery and Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - K Tsao
- The Fetal Center at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - M Austin
- The Fetal Center at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A Johnson
- Division of Fetal Intervention, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- The Fetal Center at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - R Papanna
- Division of Fetal Intervention, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
- The Fetal Center at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
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3
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Demirci O, Gezer M, Tosun Ö. Fetal bradyarrhythmias: classification, monitoring and outcomes of 40 cases at a single center. J Perinat Med 2024; 0:jpm-2024-0131. [PMID: 38917319 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2024-0131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess congenital fetal bradyarrhythmias with regard to etiological causes, features, risk factors, and prognosis. METHODS This retrospective study involved fetuses with fetal bradyarrhythmias. All fetuses were evaluated by ultrasonography. Parental ECGs and family histories were obtained, and maternal autoantibodies were measured. Gestational age at diagnosis, fetal atrial and ventricular rates at presentation, type of bradyarrhythmias, the presence or absence of a congenital heart defect (CHD), fetal hydrops, fetal myocardial dysfunction, extra-cardiac abnormalities, maternal autoimmune diseases, maternal autoantibodies as well as prenatal treatment, and neonatal outcome were collected. RESULTS Of the 40 fetuses included in the study, 11 had maternal rheumatologic disease, 16 had complex cardiac anomalies such as left and right isomerism. Fetuses with CHD significantly differed from those without CHD with increased rates of extra-cardiac anomalies, hydrops, fetal deaths and shorter survival after 28 days (p<0.05). Survival was significantly better in fetuses with maternal rheumatic disease as compared with those with no maternal rheumatic disease (p<0.05). Maternal anti-arrhythmic therapy was administered in 11 fetuses. In utero maternal treatment resulted in no significant difference in the course of arrhythmia or hydrops in fetuses with or without maternal rheumatic disease (p<0.05). In regression analysis, the absence of fetal hydrops was the only independent factor associated with survival (p=0.04). CONCLUSIONS The course of bradyarrhythmias, along with survival, seems to be more favorable in fetuses with maternal rheumatic disease than in those with CHD, especially left and right isomerism. Hydrops was the sole independent factor associated with poor survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oya Demirci
- Department of Perinatology, University of Health Sciences Zeynep Kâmil Women's and Children's Disease Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Murad Gezer
- Department of Perinatology, University of Health Sciences Zeynep Kâmil Women's and Children's Disease Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Öykü Tosun
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Medeniyet University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
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4
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Killen SAS, Strasburger JF. Diagnosis and Management of Fetal Arrhythmias in the Current Era. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2024; 11:163. [PMID: 38921663 PMCID: PMC11204159 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd11060163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Diagnosis and management of fetal arrhythmias have changed over the past 40-50 years since propranolol was first used to treat fetal tachycardia in 1975 and when first attempts were made at in utero pacing for complete heart block in 1986. Ongoing clinical trials, including the FAST therapy trial for fetal tachycardia and the STOP-BLOQ trial for anti-Ro-mediated fetal heart block, are working to improve diagnosis and management of fetal arrhythmias for both mother and fetus. We are also learning more about how "silent arrhythmias", like long QT syndrome and other inherited channelopathies, may be identified by recognizing "subtle" abnormalities in fetal heart rate, and while echocardiography yet remains the primary tool for diagnosing fetal arrhythmias, research efforts continue to advance the clinical envelope for fetal electrocardiography and fetal magnetocardiography. Pharmacologic management of fetal arrhythmias remains one of the most successful achievements of fetal intervention. Patience, vigilance, and multidisciplinary collaboration are key to successful diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy A. S. Killen
- Thomas P. Graham Jr. Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, 2200 Children’s Way, Suite 5230, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Janette F. Strasburger
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Pediatrics and Biomedical Engineering, Children’s Wisconsin, Herma Heart Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA;
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Batra AS, Silka MJ, Borquez A, Cuneo B, Dechert B, Jaeggi E, Kannankeril PJ, Tabulov C, Tisdale JE, Wolfe D. Pharmacological Management of Cardiac Arrhythmias in the Fetal and Neonatal Periods: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association: Endorsed by the Pediatric & Congenital Electrophysiology Society (PACES). Circulation 2024; 149:e937-e952. [PMID: 38314551 DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000001206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Disorders of the cardiac rhythm may occur in both the fetus and neonate. Because of the immature myocardium, the hemodynamic consequences of either bradyarrhythmias or tachyarrhythmias may be far more significant than in mature physiological states. Treatment options are limited in the fetus and neonate because of limited vascular access, patient size, and the significant risk/benefit ratio of any intervention. In addition, exposure of the fetus or neonate to either persistent arrhythmias or antiarrhythmic medications may have yet-to-be-determined long-term developmental consequences. This scientific statement discusses the mechanism of arrhythmias, pharmacological treatment options, and distinct aspects of pharmacokinetics for the fetus and neonate. From the available current data, subjects of apparent consistency/consensus are presented, as well as future directions for research in terms of aspects of care for which evidence has not been established.
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Polic A, Killen SA, Strasburger JF, Kannankeril PJ, Wakai RT, Patel SS. Low Baseline Fetal Heart Rate Leads to Diagnosis of Long QT Syndrome Type 1. JACC Case Rep 2024; 29:102183. [PMID: 38361570 PMCID: PMC10865115 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2023.102183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
A low baseline fetal heart rate at 20 weeks' gestation was detected in a fetus without cardiac structural anomalies. Fetal echocardiography and magnetocardiography were used to diagnose congenital long QT syndrome. It was confirmed in the neonate, and the same pathogenic variant in KCNQ1 was subsequently identified in the mother.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Polic
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Stacy A.S. Killen
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Janette F. Strasburger
- Division of Cardiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Childrens Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Prince J. Kannankeril
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Ronald T. Wakai
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Soha S. Patel
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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7
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Kaizer AM, Winbo A, Clur SAB, Etheridge SP, Ackerman MJ, Horigome H, Herberg U, Dagradi F, Spazzolini C, Killen SAS, Wacker-Gussmann A, Wilde AAM, Sinkovskaya E, Abuhamad A, Torchio M, Ng CA, Rydberg A, Schwartz PJ, Cuneo BF. Effects of cohort, genotype, variant, and maternal β-blocker treatment on foetal heart rate predictors of inherited long QT syndrome. Europace 2023; 25:euad319. [PMID: 37975542 PMCID: PMC10655062 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS In long QT syndrome (LQTS), primary prevention improves outcome; thus, early identification is key. The most common LQTS phenotype is a foetal heart rate (FHR) < 3rd percentile for gestational age (GA) but the effects of cohort, genotype, variant, and maternal β-blocker therapy on FHR are unknown. We assessed the influence of these factors on FHR in pregnancies with familial LQTS and developed a FHR/GA threshold for LQTS. METHODS AND RESULTS In an international cohort of pregnancies in which one parent had LQTS, LQTS genotype, familial variant, and maternal β-blocker effects on FHR were assessed. We developed a testing algorithm for LQTS using FHR and GA as continuous predictors. Data included 1966 FHRs at 7-42 weeks' GA from 267 pregnancies/164 LQTS families [220 LQTS type 1 (LQT1), 35 LQTS type 2 (LQT2), and 12 LQTS type 3 (LQT3)]. The FHRs were significantly lower in LQT1 and LQT2 but not LQT3 or LQTS negative. The LQT1 variants with non-nonsense and severe function loss (current density or β-adrenergic response) had lower FHR. Maternal β-blockers potentiated bradycardia in LQT1 and LQT2 but did not affect FHR in LQTS negative. A FHR/GA threshold predicted LQT1 and LQT2 with 74.9% accuracy, 71% sensitivity, and 81% specificity. CONCLUSION Genotype, LQT1 variant, and maternal β-blocker therapy affect FHR. A predictive threshold of FHR/GA significantly improves the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for LQT1 and LQT2, above the infant's a priori 50% probability. We speculate this model may be useful in screening for LQTS in perinatal subjects without a known LQTS family history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander M Kaizer
- Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Annika Winbo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
- Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sally-Ann B Clur
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Emma Children’s Hospital, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Susan P Etheridge
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Michael J Ackerman
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Division of Heart Rhythm Services, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Windland Smith Rice Genetic Heart Rhythm Clinic and Windland Smith Rice Sudden Death Genomics Laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Hitoshi Horigome
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Cardiology, Tsukuba University, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Ulrike Herberg
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, RWTH University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Federica Dagradi
- Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias of Genetic Origin and Laboratory of Cardiovascular Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Pier Lombardo 22, 2015 Milan, Italy
| | - Carla Spazzolini
- Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias of Genetic Origin and Laboratory of Cardiovascular Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Pier Lombardo 22, 2015 Milan, Italy
| | - Stacy A S Killen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Annette Wacker-Gussmann
- Department of Congenital Heart Disease and Paediatric Cardiology, German Heart Center, Munich, Germany
| | - Arthur A M Wilde
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Amseterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elena Sinkovskaya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Alfred Abuhamad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Margherita Torchio
- Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias of Genetic Origin and Laboratory of Cardiovascular Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Pier Lombardo 22, 2015 Milan, Italy
| | - Chai-Ann Ng
- Mark Cowley Lidwill Research Program in Cardiac Electrophysiology, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- The School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Annika Rydberg
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Umea, Sweden
- Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J Schwartz
- Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias of Genetic Origin and Laboratory of Cardiovascular Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Via Pier Lombardo 22, 2015 Milan, Italy
| | - Bettina F Cuneo
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Cardiology, University of Denver School of Medicine, 13123 16th Ave, Box 100, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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Davies RA, Ladouceur VB, Green MS, Joza J, Juurlink DN, Krahn AD, McMurtry MS, Roberts JD, Roston TM, Sanatani S, Steinberg C, MacIntyre C. The 2023 Canadian Cardiovascular Society Clinical Practice Update on Management of the Patient With a Prolonged QT Interval. Can J Cardiol 2023; 39:1285-1301. [PMID: 37827588 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2023.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
A prolonged QT interval on the electrocardiogram is associated with an increased risk of the torsades de pointes form of ventricular arrhythmia resulting in syncope, sudden cardiac arrest or death, or misdiagnosis as a seizure disorder. The cause of QT prolongation can be congenital and inherited as an autosomal dominant variant, or it can be transient and acquired, often because of QT-prolonging drugs or electrolyte abnormalities. Automated measurement of the QT interval can be inaccurate, especially when the baseline electrocardiogram is abnormal, and manual verification is recommended. In this clinical practice update we provide practical tips about measurement of the QT interval, diagnosis, and management of congenital long QT syndrome and acquired prolongation of the QT interval. For congenital long QT syndrome, certain β-adrenergic-blocking drugs are highly effective, and implantable defibrillators are infrequently required. Many commonly prescribed drugs such as antidepressants and antibiotics can prolong the QT interval, and recommendations are provided on their safe use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross A Davies
- University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | - Martin S Green
- University of Ottawa Heart Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - David N Juurlink
- University of Toronto, ICES, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew D Krahn
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Jason D Roberts
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thomas M Roston
- Center for Cardiovascular Innovation, Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Shubhayan Sanatani
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christian Steinberg
- Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Laval University, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Ciorsti MacIntyre
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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9
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Joglar JA, Kapa S, Saarel EV, Dubin AM, Gorenek B, Hameed AB, Lara de Melo S, Leal MA, Mondésert B, Pacheco LD, Robinson MR, Sarkozy A, Silversides CK, Spears D, Srinivas SK, Strasburger JF, Tedrow UB, Wright JM, Zelop CM, Zentner D. 2023 HRS expert consensus statement on the management of arrhythmias during pregnancy. Heart Rhythm 2023; 20:e175-e264. [PMID: 37211147 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2023.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
This international multidisciplinary expert consensus statement is intended to provide comprehensive guidance that can be referenced at the point of care to cardiac electrophysiologists, cardiologists, and other health care professionals, on the management of cardiac arrhythmias in pregnant patients and in fetuses. This document covers general concepts related to arrhythmias, including both brady- and tachyarrhythmias, in both the patient and the fetus during pregnancy. Recommendations are provided for optimal approaches to diagnosis and evaluation of arrhythmias; selection of invasive and noninvasive options for treatment of arrhythmias; and disease- and patient-specific considerations when risk stratifying, diagnosing, and treating arrhythmias in pregnant patients and fetuses. Gaps in knowledge and new directions for future research are also identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- José A Joglar
- The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | | | - Elizabeth V Saarel
- St. Luke's Health System, Boise, Idaho, and Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Luis D Pacheco
- The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas
| | | | - Andrea Sarkozy
- University Hospital of Antwerp, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Danna Spears
- University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sindhu K Srinivas
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | | | | | - Carolyn M Zelop
- The Valley Health System, Ridgewood, New Jersey; New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York
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10
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Chaudhry-Waterman N, Dara B, Bucholz E, Londono Obregon C, Grenier M, Snyder K, Cuneo BF. Fetal Heart Rate < 3rd Percentile for Gestational Age Can Be a Marker of Inherited Arrhythmia Syndromes. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4464. [PMID: 37445499 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Repeated fetal heart rates (FHR) < 3rd percentile for gestational age (GA) with 1:1 atrioventricular conduction (sinus bradycardia) can be a marker for long QT syndrome. We hypothesized that other inherited arrhythmia syndromes might present with fetal sinus bradycardia. METHODS We reviewed pregnancies referred with sinus bradycardia to the Colorado Fetal Care Center between 2013 and 2023. FHR/GA data, family history, medication exposure, normalized isovolumic contraction times (n-IVRT), postnatal genetic testing, and ECGs at 4-6 weeks after birth were reviewed. RESULTS Twenty-nine bradycardic subjects were evaluated by fetal echocardiography. Five were lost to follow-up, one refused genetic testing, and one had negative genetic testing for any inherited arrhythmia. Six had non-genetic causes of fetal bradycardia with normal prenatal n-IVRT and postnatal QTc. Thirteen carried pathogenic variants in RYR2 (n = 2), HCN4 (n = 2), KCNQ1 (6), and other LQTS genes (n = 4). The postnatal QTc was <470 ms in subjects with RYR2, HCN4, and two of those with KCNQ1 mutations, and >470 ms in subjects with CALM 2, KCNH2, SCN5A, and four of those with KCNQ1 mutations. LQTS and RYR2 mutations were associated with prolonged n-IVRT, but HCN4 was not. Two fetuses died in utero with variants of uncertain significance (CACNA1 and KCNE1). Cascade testing uncovered six affected but undiagnosed parents and confirmed familial inheritance in five. CONCLUSION In addition to heralding LQTS, repeated FHR < 3rd percentile for GA is a risk factor for other inherited arrhythmia syndromes. These findings suggest that genetic testing should be offered to infants with a history of FHR < 3rd percentile for GA even if the postnatal ECG demonstrates a normal QTc interval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Chaudhry-Waterman
- The Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO 80045, USA
| | - Bharat Dara
- Presbyterian Hospital, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA
| | - Emily Bucholz
- The Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO 80045, USA
- The Colorado Fetal Care Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Camila Londono Obregon
- The Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO 80045, USA
- The Colorado Fetal Care Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Michelle Grenier
- The Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO 80045, USA
- The Colorado Fetal Care Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Kristen Snyder
- The Colorado Fetal Care Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Bettina F Cuneo
- The Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO 80045, USA
- The Colorado Fetal Care Center, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
- The Department of Obstetrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO 80045, USA
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11
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Moon-Grady AJ, Donofrio MT, Gelehrter S, Hornberger L, Kreeger J, Lee W, Michelfelder E, Morris SA, Peyvandi S, Pinto NM, Pruetz J, Sethi N, Simpson J, Srivastava S, Tian Z. Guidelines and Recommendations for Performance of the Fetal Echocardiogram: An Update from the American Society of Echocardiography. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2023; 36:679-723. [PMID: 37227365 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2023.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary T Donofrio
- Children's National Hospital, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | | | - Joe Kreeger
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Wesley Lee
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Shaine A Morris
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas; Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Shabnam Peyvandi
- University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | | | - Jay Pruetz
- Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | | | - John Simpson
- Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Zhiyun Tian
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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12
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Jaros R, Barnova K, Vilimkova Kahankova R, Pelisek J, Litschmannova M, Martinek R. Independent component analysis algorithms for non-invasive fetal electrocardiography. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286858. [PMID: 37279195 PMCID: PMC10243647 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The independent component analysis (ICA) based methods are among the most prevalent techniques used for non-invasive fetal electrocardiogram (NI-fECG) processing. Often, these methods are combined with other methods, such adaptive algorithms. However, there are many variants of the ICA methods and it is not clear which one is the most suitable for this task. The goal of this study is to test and objectively evaluate 11 variants of ICA methods combined with an adaptive fast transversal filter (FTF) for the purpose of extracting the NI-fECG. The methods were tested on two datasets, Labour dataset and Pregnancy dataset, which contained real records obtained during clinical practice. The efficiency of the methods was evaluated from the perspective of determining the accuracy of detection of QRS complexes through the parameters of accuracy (ACC), sensitivity (SE), positive predictive value (PPV), and harmonic mean between SE and PPV (F1). The best results were achieved with a combination of FastICA and FTF, which yielded mean values of ACC = 83.72%, SE = 92.13%, PPV = 90.16%, and F1 = 91.14%. Time of calculation was also taken into consideration in the methods. Although FastICA was ranked to be the sixth fastest with its mean computation time of 0.452 s, it had the best ratio of performance and speed. The combination of FastICA and adaptive FTF filter turned out to be very promising. In addition, such device would require signals acquired from the abdominal area only; no need to acquire reference signal from the mother's chest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rene Jaros
- Department of Cybernetics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB–Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Katerina Barnova
- Department of Cybernetics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB–Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Radana Vilimkova Kahankova
- Department of Cybernetics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB–Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Jan Pelisek
- Department of Cybernetics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB–Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Martina Litschmannova
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB–Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Radek Martinek
- Department of Cybernetics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB–Technical University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
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13
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Carvalho JS, Axt-Fliedner R, Chaoui R, Copel JA, Cuneo BF, Goff D, Gordin Kopylov L, Hecher K, Lee W, Moon-Grady AJ, Mousa HA, Munoz H, Paladini D, Prefumo F, Quarello E, Rychik J, Tutschek B, Wiechec M, Yagel S. ISUOG Practice Guidelines (updated): fetal cardiac screening. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2023; 61:788-803. [PMID: 37267096 DOI: 10.1002/uog.26224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- J S Carvalho
- Royal Brompton Hospital, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust; and Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Cardiovascular Clinical Academic Group, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - R Axt-Fliedner
- Division of Prenatal Medicine & Fetal Therapy, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, University Hospital Giessen & Marburg, Giessen, Germany
| | - R Chaoui
- Center of Prenatal Diagnosis and Human Genetics, Berlin, Germany
| | - J A Copel
- Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, and Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - B F Cuneo
- Children's Hospital Colorado, The Heart Institute, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - D Goff
- Pediatrix Cardiology of Houston and Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - L Gordin Kopylov
- Obstetrical Unit, Shamir Medical Center (formerly Assaf Harofeh Medical Center), Zerifin, Israel; and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - K Hecher
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - W Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - A J Moon-Grady
- Clinical Pediatrics, UC San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - H A Mousa
- Fetal Medicine Unit, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - H Munoz
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidad de Chile and Clinica Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
| | - D Paladini
- Fetal Medicine and Surgery Unit, IRCCS Istituto G. Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - F Prefumo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS Istituto G. Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - E Quarello
- Image 2 Center, Obstetrics and Gynecologic Department, St Joseph Hospital, Marseille, France
| | - J Rychik
- Fetal Heart Program at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and Perelman School of Medicine at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - B Tutschek
- Pränatal Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland; and Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - M Wiechec
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Krakow, Poland
| | - S Yagel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hadassah Medical Center, Mt. Scopus and the Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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14
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Wacker-Gussmann A, Eckstein GK, Strasburger JF. Preventing and Treating Torsades de Pointes in the Mother, Fetus and Newborn in the Highest Risk Pregnancies with Inherited Arrhythmia Syndromes. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12103379. [PMID: 37240485 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12103379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of women of childbearing age who have been diagnosed in childhood with ion channelopathy and effectively treated using beta blockers, cardiac sympathectomy, and life-saving cardiac pacemakers/defibrillators is increasing. Since many of these diseases are inherited as autosomal dominant, offspring have about a 50% risk of having the disease, though many will be only mildly impacted during fetal life. However, highly complex delivery room preparation is increasingly needed in pregnancies with inherited arrhythmia syndromes (IASs). However, specific Doppler techniques show meanwhile a better understanding of fetal electrophysiology. The advent of fetal magnetocardiography (FMCG) now allows the detection of fetal Torsades de Pointes (TdP) ventricular tachycardia and other LQT-associated arrhythmias (QTc prolongation, functional second AV block, T-wave alternans, sinus bradycardia, late-coupled ventricular ectopy and monomorphic VT) in susceptible fetuses during the second and third trimester. These types of arrhythmias can be due to either de novo or familial Long QT Syndrome (LQTS), Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia (CPVT), or other IAS. It is imperative that the multiple specialists involved in the antenatal, peripartum, and neonatal care of these women and their fetuses/infants have the optimal knowledge, training and equipment in order to care for these highly specialized pregnancies and deliveries. In this review, we outline the steps to recognize symptomatic LQTS in either the mother, fetus or both, along with suggestions for evaluation and management of the pregnancy, delivery, or post-partum period impacted by LQTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Wacker-Gussmann
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Congenital Heart Disease, German Heart Center Munich, 80636 Munich, Germany
| | - Gretchen K Eckstein
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Pediatrics and Biomedical Engineering, Children's Wisconsin, Herma Heart Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Janette F Strasburger
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Pediatrics and Biomedical Engineering, Children's Wisconsin, Herma Heart Institute, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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15
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Systematic review of long QT syndrome identified during fetal life. Heart Rhythm 2022; 20:596-606. [PMID: 36566891 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2022.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Fetal long QT syndrome (LQTS) may present with sinus bradycardia, functional 2:1 atrioventricular block (AVB), and ventricular arrhythmias (ventricular tachycardia [VT]/torsades de pointes [TdP]) and lead to fetal or postnatal death. We performed a systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis of 83 studies reporting outcomes of 265 fetuses for which suspected LQTS was confirmed postnatally and determined risk of adverse perinatal and postnatal outcomes using logistic and stepwise logistic regression. A longer fetal QTc was more predictive of death than any other antenatal factor (receiver operating characteristic [ROC] area under the curve [AUC] 0.85; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.66-1.00). Risk of death was significantly increased with fetal QTc >600 ms. Neither fetal heart rate nor heart rate z-score predicted death (ROC AUC 0.51; 95% CI 0.31-0.71; and ROC AUC 0.59; 95% CI 0.37-0.80, respectively). The combination of antenatal VT/TdP or functional 2:1 AVB and lack of family history of LQTS was also highly predictive of death (ROC AUC 0.82; 95% CI 0.76-0.88). Our data provide clinical screening tools to enable prediction and intervention for fetuses with LQTS at risk of death.
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16
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Carvalho JS. Risk stratification for irregular fetal heart rhythm: practical approach to management. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2022; 60:717-720. [PMID: 36454638 DOI: 10.1002/uog.26109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- J S Carvalho
- Brompton Centre for Fetal Cardiology, Royal Brompton Hospital, Guy's and St Thomas's NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Cardiovascular Clinical Academic Group, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK
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17
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Westphal DS, Hauser M, Beckmann BM, Wolf CM, Hessling G, Oberhoffer-Fritz R, Wacker-Gussmann A. Fetal Bradycardia Caused by Monogenic Disorders-A Review of the Literature. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11236880. [PMID: 36498454 PMCID: PMC9741304 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11236880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The standard obstetric definition of fetal bradycardia is a sustained fetal heart rate < 110 bpm over at least 10 min. Fetal bradycardia can be the first and only prenatal presentation of a heart disease. We present an overview on different genetic disorders that should be taken into consideration in case of diagnosed fetal bradycardia. Methods: A literature review was conducted using a PubMed- and OMIM-based search for monogenetic disorders causing fetal bradycardia in September 2022. Results: The review on the literature identified nine monogenic diseases that could lead to fetal bradycardia. Four of these disorders can be associated with extracardiac findings. Discussion: Genetic testing should be considered in cases with fetal bradycardia, especially in cases of additional extracardiac findings. Broad sequencing techniques and improved prenatal phenotyping could help to establish a diagnosis in an increasing number of cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominik S. Westphal
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine and Health, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Institute of Human Genetics, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, School of Medicine and Health, Technical University Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Britt-Maria Beckmann
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, 60596 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Cordula M. Wolf
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, 80802 Munich, Germany
- Department of Congenital Heart Defects and Pediatric Cardiology, German Heart Center Munich, School of Medicine and Health, Technical University Munich, 80636 Munich, Germany
| | - Gabriele Hessling
- Department of Congenital Heart Defects and Pediatric Cardiology, German Heart Center Munich, School of Medicine and Health, Technical University Munich, 80636 Munich, Germany
| | - Renate Oberhoffer-Fritz
- Department of Congenital Heart Defects and Pediatric Cardiology, German Heart Center Munich, School of Medicine and Health, Technical University Munich, 80636 Munich, Germany
- Institute of Preventive Pediatrics, TUM Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University Munich, 80992 Munich, Germany
| | - Annette Wacker-Gussmann
- Department of Congenital Heart Defects and Pediatric Cardiology, German Heart Center Munich, School of Medicine and Health, Technical University Munich, 80636 Munich, Germany
- Institute of Preventive Pediatrics, TUM Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University Munich, 80992 Munich, Germany
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18
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Strasburger JF, Eckstein G, Butler M, Noffke P, Wacker-Gussmann A. Fetal Arrhythmia Diagnosis and Pharmacologic Management. J Clin Pharmacol 2022; 62 Suppl 1:S53-S66. [PMID: 36106782 PMCID: PMC9543141 DOI: 10.1002/jcph.2129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
One of the most successful achievements of fetal intervention is the pharmacologic management of fetal arrhythmias. This management usually takes place during the second or third trimester. While most arrhythmias in the fetus are benign, both tachy‐ and bradyarrhythmias can lead to fetal hydrops or cardiac dysfunction and require treatment under certain conditions. This review will highlight precise diagnosis by fetal echocardiography and magnetocardiography, the 2 primary means of diagnosing fetuses with arrhythmia. Additionally, transient or hidden arrhythmias such as bundle branch block, QT prolongation, and torsades de pointes, which can lead to cardiomyopathy and sudden unexplained death in the fetus, may also need pharmacologic treatment. The review will address the types of drug therapies; current knowledge of drug usage, efficacy, and precautions; and the transition to neonatal treatments when indicated. Finally, we will highlight new assessments, including the role of the nurse in the care of fetal arrhythmias. The prognosis for the human fetus with arrhythmias continues to improve as we expand our ability to provide intensive care unit–like monitoring, to better understand drug treatments, to optimize subsequent pregnancy monitoring, to effectively predict timing for delivery, and to follow up these conditions into the neonatal period and into childhood. Coordinated initiatives that facilitate clinical fetal research are needed to address gaps in knowledge and to facilitate fetal drug and device development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janette F Strasburger
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Pediatrics and Biomedical Engineering, Children's Wisconsin, Herma Heart Institute, and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Gretchen Eckstein
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Pediatrics and Biomedical Engineering, Children's Wisconsin, Herma Heart Institute, and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Mary Butler
- College of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Oshkosh, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Patrick Noffke
- Division of Cardiology, Departments of Pediatrics and Biomedical Engineering, Children's Wisconsin, Herma Heart Institute, and Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Annette Wacker-Gussmann
- German Heart Center, Department of Congenital Heart Disease and Pediatric Cardiology Munich, Munchen, Bavaria, Germany
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19
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Kikano SD, Killen SAS. Transient Fetal Atrioventricular Block: A Series of Four Cases and Approach to Management. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2022; 33:2228-2232. [PMID: 35924469 DOI: 10.1111/jce.15642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Fetal atrioventricular block (AVB) is a failure of conduction from atria to ventricles. Immune- and non-immune-mediated forms occur, especially in association with congenital heart disease. Second-degree (2°) AVB may be reversible with dexamethasone and IVIG in immune-mediated disease. However, once third-degree (3°) AVB develops, it is deemed irreversible with need for a pacemaker and risk for cardiomyopathy. Rarely, 2° AVB is a transient, benign phenomenon in the immature conduction system. Few case series of transient AVB have been reported, but a management approach has not been defined. We report four patients with self-resolving, non-immune fetal AVB and outline a management strategy. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra D Kikano
- Thomas P. Graham Division of Pediatric Cardiology Monroe Carell Jr Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Stacy A S Killen
- Thomas P. Graham Division of Pediatric Cardiology Monroe Carell Jr Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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20
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Zidere V, Vigneswaran TV, Dumitrascu-Biris I, Regan W, Simpson JM, Homfray T. Presentation and genetic confirmation of long QT syndrome in the fetus. HeartRhythm Case Rep 2022; 8:674-678. [PMID: 36310718 PMCID: PMC9596364 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrcr.2022.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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21
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Hsu YT, Lee PC, Chen YH, Yeh SJ, Chen MR, Hsu KH, Chang CI, Lai WT, Hung WL. Resuscitated Sudden Cardiac Arrest of a Neonate with Congenital LQT Syndrome-Associated Torsades de Pointes: A Case Report and Literature Review. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2022; 9:jcdd9060184. [PMID: 35735813 PMCID: PMC9225216 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd9060184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), the most common cause of infant death in developed countries, is attributed to diverse trigger factors. Malignant cardiac dysrhythmias are potentially treatable etiologies, and congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS) is the most common cardiac ionic channelopathy confronted. β-Blockers or class Ib agents are the drugs of choice for the control of arrhythmias, and an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) should be considered for secondary prevention in survivors of lethal cardiac death. We report the case of a 4-day old neonate, later genetically confirmed as LQT type 3 (LQT3), who survived a pulseless torsades de pointes (TdP) attack and was successfully treated with propranolol, mexiletine, and ICD implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Teng Hsu
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Mackay Children’s Hospital, Taipei 104217, Taiwan; (Y.-T.H.); (Y.-H.C.); (S.-J.Y.); (M.-R.C.)
| | - Pi-Chang Lee
- Department of Medical Education, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 40705, Taiwan;
| | - Yu-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Mackay Children’s Hospital, Taipei 104217, Taiwan; (Y.-T.H.); (Y.-H.C.); (S.-J.Y.); (M.-R.C.)
| | - Shu-Jen Yeh
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Mackay Children’s Hospital, Taipei 104217, Taiwan; (Y.-T.H.); (Y.-H.C.); (S.-J.Y.); (M.-R.C.)
| | - Ming-Ren Chen
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Mackay Children’s Hospital, Taipei 104217, Taiwan; (Y.-T.H.); (Y.-H.C.); (S.-J.Y.); (M.-R.C.)
| | - Kung-Hong Hsu
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 104217, Taiwan; (K.-H.H.); (C.-I.C.)
| | - Chung-I Chang
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 104217, Taiwan; (K.-H.H.); (C.-I.C.)
| | - Wei-Ting Lai
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Hung Chi Women and Children’s Hospital, Taoyuan 320675, Taiwan;
| | - Wei-Li Hung
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Mackay Children’s Hospital, Taipei 104217, Taiwan; (Y.-T.H.); (Y.-H.C.); (S.-J.Y.); (M.-R.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-2543-3535
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22
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Sun H, Liu X, Hao X, Zhou X, Wang J, Han J, Liang M, Zhang H, He Y. Case Report: Biventricular Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy With Pulmonary Stenosis and Bradycardia in a Fetus With KCNH2 Mutation. Front Genet 2022; 13:821226. [PMID: 35281812 PMCID: PMC8908010 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.821226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is a rare cardiomyopathy, long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a rare ion channel disease, and simultaneous occurrence of both is even rarer. Further clinical reports and studies are needed to identify the association between LVNC and LQTS and the underlying mechanism. Methods and Results: A 26-year-old primigravida was referred at 25 weeks gestation for prenatal echocardiography due to fetal bradycardia detected during the routine ultrasound examination. The echocardiographic findings were consistent with biventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy (BVNC) with pulmonary stenosis and suspected LQTS. After detailed counseling, the couple decided to terminate the pregnancy, and subsequent postmortem examination confirmed BVNC and pulmonary stenosis. Then, A trio (fetus and the parents) whole-exome sequencing (WES) and copy number variation sequencing (CNV-seq) were performed. CNV-seq identified no aneuploidy or pathogenic CNV. A de novo missense variant in KCNH2 (NM_000238.3:c.1847A > G,p.Tyr616Cys) was identified by WES. This KCNH2 missense mutation was classified as pathogenic according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics and the Association for Molecular Pathology variant interpretation guidelines. Conclusion: We report the first prenatal case of KCNH2 mutation presenting with LVNC combined with bradycardia and second-degree 2:1 atrioventricular block. Importantly, this case reminds clinicians to systematically search ion channel gene mutations in patients with LVNC and arrhythmia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hairui Sun
- Department of Echocardiography, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaowei Liu
- Department of Echocardiography, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Hao
- Department of Echocardiography, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxue Zhou
- Department of Echocardiography, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jingyi Wang
- Department of Echocardiography, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiancheng Han
- Department of Echocardiography, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | | | - Hongjia Zhang
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hongjia Zhang, ; Yihua He,
| | - Yihua He
- Department of Echocardiography, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Hongjia Zhang, ; Yihua He,
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Zhang Y, Li X, Yang Y, Wang J, Gao X, Fan M. The combined novel KCNQ1 frameshift I145Sfs*92 and nonsense W392X variants caused Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome in a Chinese infant presenting with sustained foetal bradycardia. Europace 2021; 22:1880-1884. [PMID: 32830254 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euaa154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS We report clinical and molecular analysis of an infant presenting with foetal bradycardia and clinical outcome of Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome (JLNS). METHODS AND RESULTS Clinical, electrocardiogram (ECG), and echocardiographic data were collected from members in a three-generation family. Whole exomes were amplified and sequenced for proband. The identified variants were verified in the remaining members. The pathogenicity of candidate variants was predicted using multiple software programmes. A 28-year-old non-consanguineous Chinese woman at 23 weeks' gestation presenting with sustained foetal bradycardia of 100 b.p.m. Immunological disorders and infection were excluded. The infant was delivered at 37 weeks' gestation with 2700-g birthweight. QTc was prolonged in both ECG and Holter recording. Hearing tests confirmed bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. Genetic testing demonstrated that the infant carried a novel frameshift c.431delC (p.I145Sfs*92) and a novel nonsense c.1175G>A (p.W392X) compound variants of KCNQ1 inherited from mother and father, respectively, in autosomal recessive inheritance. Only relative II-5 carrying heterozygous KCNQ1-I145Sfs*92 variant had prolonged QTc, while the other carriers did not have prolonged QT, suggesting an autosomal dominant inheritance of LQT1 phenotype with incomplete penetrance in the family. CONCLUSION We report the novel frameshift KCNQ1-I145Sfs*92 and nonsense KCNQ1-W392X compound variants in autosomal recessive inheritance that caused JLNS presenting as sustained foetal bradycardia for the first time. Meanwhile, KCNQ1-I145Sfs*92 heterozygous variant demonstrated LQT1 phenotype in autosomal dominant inheritance with incomplete penetrance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmin Zhang
- Shaanxi Institute for Pediatric Diseases, Xi'an, China.,Xi'an Key Laboratory of Children's Health and Diseases, Xi'an, China.,Department of Cardiology, Xi'an Children's Hospital, Affiliated Children's Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 69 Xi Ju Yuan Xiang, Xi'an 710003, China
| | - Xiaomin Li
- Department of Electrocardiography, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Ying Yang
- Shaanxi Institute for Pediatric Diseases, Xi'an, China.,Xi'an Key Laboratory of Children's Health and Diseases, Xi'an, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Shaanxi Institute for Pediatric Diseases, Xi'an, China.,Xi'an Key Laboratory of Children's Health and Diseases, Xi'an, China
| | - Xinru Gao
- Department of Ultrasound, Northwest Women and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Mengyun Fan
- Department of Ear-Nose-Throat, Xi'an Children's Hospital, Affiliated Children's Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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Treatment of Fetal Arrhythmias. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10112510. [PMID: 34204066 PMCID: PMC8201238 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10112510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal arrhythmias are mostly benign and transient. However, some of them are associated with structural defects or can cause heart failure, fetal hydrops, and can lead to intrauterine death. The analysis of fetal heart rhythm is based on ultrasound (M-mode and Doppler echocardiography). Irregular rhythm due to atrial ectopic beats is the most common type of fetal arrhythmia and is generally benign. Tachyarrhythmias are diagnosed when the fetal heart rate is persistently above 180 beats per minute (bpm). The most common fetal tachyarrhythmias are paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and atrial flutter. Most fetal tachycardias can be terminated or controlled by transplacental or direct administration of anti-arrhythmic drugs. Fetal bradycardia is diagnosed when the fetal heart rate is slower than 110 bpm. Persistent bradycardia outside labor or in the absence of placental pathology is mostly due to atrioventricular (AV) block. Approximately half of fetal heart blocks are in cases with structural heart defects, and AV block in cases with structurally normal heart is often caused by maternal anti-Ro/SSA antibodies. The efficacy of prenatal treatment for fetal AV block is limited. Our review aims to provide a practical guide for the diagnosis and management of common fetal arrythmias, from the joint perspective of the fetal medicine specialist and the cardiologist.
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25
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Taylor C, Stambler BS. Management of Long QT Syndrome in Women Before, During, and After Pregnancy. US CARDIOLOGY REVIEW 2021. [DOI: 10.15420/usc.2021.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a primary genetic and electrical disorder that increases risk for torsades de pointes, syncope, and sudden death. Post-pubertal women with LQTS require specialized multidisciplinary management before, during, and after pregnancy involving cardiology and obstetrics to reduce risk for cardiac events in themselves and their fetuses and babies. The risk of potentially life-threatening events is lower during pregnancy but increases significantly during the 9-month postpartum period. Treatment of women with LQTS with a preferred β-blocker at optimal doses along with close monitoring are indicated throughout pregnancy and during the high-risk postpartum period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Taylor
- Cardiac Electrophysiology, Piedmont Heart Institute, Atlanta, GA
| | - Bruce S Stambler
- Cardiac Electrophysiology, Piedmont Heart Institute, Atlanta, GA
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26
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Zidere V, Vigneswaran TV, Syngelaki A, Charakida M, Allan LD, Nicolaides KH, Simpson JM, Akolekar R. Reference Ranges for Pulsed-Wave Doppler of the Fetal Cardiac Inflow and Outflow Tracts from 13 to 36 Weeks' Gestation. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2021; 34:1007-1016.e10. [PMID: 33957251 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2021.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Doppler assessment of ventricular filling and outflow tract velocities is an integral part of fetal echocardiography, to assess diastolic function, systolic function, and outflow tract obstruction. There is a paucity of prospective data from a large sample of normal fetuses in the published literature. The authors report reference ranges for pulsed-wave Doppler flow of the mitral valve, tricuspid valve, aortic valve, and pulmonary valve, as well as heart rate, in a large number of fetuses prospectively examined at a single tertiary fetal cardiology center. METHODS The study population comprised 7,885 fetuses at 13 to 36 weeks' gestation with no detectable abnormalities from pregnancies resulting in normal live births. Prospective pulsed-wave Doppler blood flow measurements were taken of the mitral, tricuspid, aortic, and pulmonary valves. The fetal heart rate was recorded at the time of each assessment. Regression analysis, with polynomial terms to assess for linear and nonlinear contributors, was used to establish the relationship between each measurement and gestational age. RESULTS The measurement for each cardiac Doppler measurement was expressed as a Z score (difference between observed and expected values divided by the fitted SD corrected for gestational age) and percentile. Analysis included calculation of gestation-specific SDs. Regression equations are provided for the cardiac inflow and outflow tracts. CONCLUSIONS This study establishes reference ranges for fetal cardiac Doppler measurements and heart rate between 13 to 36 weeks' gestation that may be useful in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vita Zidere
- Harris Birthright Centre, Fetal Medicine Research Institute, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom; Department of Congenital Heart Disease, Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Trisha V Vigneswaran
- Harris Birthright Centre, Fetal Medicine Research Institute, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom; Department of Congenital Heart Disease, Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Argyro Syngelaki
- Harris Birthright Centre, Fetal Medicine Research Institute, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marietta Charakida
- Harris Birthright Centre, Fetal Medicine Research Institute, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom; Department of Congenital Heart Disease, Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom; School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lindsey D Allan
- Harris Birthright Centre, Fetal Medicine Research Institute, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kypros H Nicolaides
- Harris Birthright Centre, Fetal Medicine Research Institute, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - John M Simpson
- Harris Birthright Centre, Fetal Medicine Research Institute, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom; Department of Congenital Heart Disease, Evelina London Children's Hospital, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ranjit Akolekar
- Medway Fetal and Maternal Medicine Centre, Medway Maritime Hospital, Gillingham, United Kingdom; Institute of Medical Sciences, Canterbury Christ Church University, Chatham, United Kingdom
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Gravenhorst VD, Schneider HE, Müller MJ, Krause U, Felke B, Paul T. [Fetal ECG and arrhythmias]. Herzschrittmacherther Elektrophysiol 2021; 32:152-157. [PMID: 33825056 DOI: 10.1007/s00399-021-00758-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The normal fetal heart rate ranges between 110 und 180 beats per minute (bpm). Intrauterine arrhythmias are not an uncommon finding. Fetal echocardiography (ECG) allows for correct diagnosis of the arrhythmia, which is prerequisite for decision making and treatment. Most fetal rhythm disturbances are the result of premature atrial contractions and are of little clinical significance. Intrauterine bradycardias (heart rate < 110 bpm) result from sinus node dysfunction, complete AV block and nonconducted atrial bigeminy. Isolated complete heart block related to maternal anti-SSA/Ro or SSB/La auto-antibodies is irreversible in almost all fetuses. Anti-inflammatory therapy and chronotropic medication may improve outcome. Newborn babies often require pacemaker implantation to augment cardiac output. Intrauterine tachycardias (heart rate > 180 bpm) are most commonly related to supraventricular tachycardia and atrial flutter. Specific antiarrhythmic medication is available to stop the arrhythmia and to prevent hemodynamic deterioration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena D Gravenhorst
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Pädiatrische Kardiologie, Intensivmedizin und Pneumologie, Kinderherzklinik/Überregionales EMAH-Zentrum, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Deutschland.
| | - Heike E Schneider
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Pädiatrische Kardiologie, Intensivmedizin und Pneumologie, Kinderherzklinik/Überregionales EMAH-Zentrum, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Deutschland
| | - Matthias J Müller
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Pädiatrische Kardiologie, Intensivmedizin und Pneumologie, Kinderherzklinik/Überregionales EMAH-Zentrum, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Deutschland
| | - Ulrich Krause
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Pädiatrische Kardiologie, Intensivmedizin und Pneumologie, Kinderherzklinik/Überregionales EMAH-Zentrum, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Deutschland
| | - Barbara Felke
- Klinik für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Deutschland
| | - Thomas Paul
- Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Pädiatrische Kardiologie, Intensivmedizin und Pneumologie, Kinderherzklinik/Überregionales EMAH-Zentrum, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Deutschland
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28
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Arrhythmic risk during pregnancy and postpartum in patients with long QT syndrome. Herzschrittmacherther Elektrophysiol 2021; 32:180-185. [PMID: 33782754 PMCID: PMC8166676 DOI: 10.1007/s00399-021-00757-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a genetic disorder characterized by a prolonged QT interval in the surface electrocardiogram (ECG) that predisposes affected individuals to arrhythmic syncope, ventricular torsades-de-pointes, and sudden cardiac death at a young age. Investigations of large patient cohorts revealed sex-related differences in the LQTS phenotype. Adult women with LQTS are at higher risk for cardiac arrhythmias than are adult men with LQTS. Sex hormones are thought to play the primary role for these gender differences. Clinical experience and translational studies indicated that females with LQTS have a lower risk for cardiac arrhythmias during pregnancy and elevated risk in the postpartum period due to contrasting effects of estradiol and progesterone, as well as postpartum hormones on the action potential and arrhythmia substrate. However, this pro- or anti-arrhythmic potential of hormones varies depending on the underlying genotype, partly since sex hormones have distinct effects on different (affected) cardiac ion channels. Thus, a comprehensive evaluation of women with LQTS prior to and during pregnancy, during labor, and in the postpartum period with consideration of the patient’s disease- and gene-specific risk factors is essential to providing precision management in this patient group. This review discusses the current understanding of hormonal influences in LQTS and provides practical guidance for the optimal management of LQTS patients during pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period.
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29
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Wiputra H, Lim M, Yap CH. A transition point for the blood flow wall shear stress environment in the human fetal left ventricle during early gestation. J Biomech 2021; 120:110353. [PMID: 33730564 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2021.110353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Development of the fetal heart is a fascinating process that involves a tremendous amount of growth. Here, we performed image-based flow simulations of 3 human fetal left ventricles (LV), and investigated the hypothetical scenario where the sizes of the hearts are scaled down, leading to reduced Reynolds number, to emulate earlier fetal stages. The shape and motion of the LV were retained over the scaling to isolate and understand the effects of length scaling on its fluid dynamics. We observed an interesting cut-off point in Reynolds number (Re), across which the dependency of LV wall shear stress (WSS) on Re changed. This was in line with classical fluid mechanic theory where skin friction coefficient exhibited first a decreasing trend and then a plateauing trend with increasing Re. Below this cut-off point, viscous effects dominated, stifling the formation of LV diastolic vorticity structures, and WSS was roughly independent of Reynolds number. However, above this cut-off, inertial effects dominated to cause diastolic vortex ring formation and detachment, and to cause WSS to scale linearly with Reynolds number. Results suggested that this transition point is found at approximately 11 weeks of gestation. Since WSS is thought to be a biomechanical stimuli for growth, this may have implications on normal fetal heart growth and malformation diseases like Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Wiputra
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Morgan Lim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Choon Hwai Yap
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, UK.
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30
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Importance of Analysis of Arrhythmia Mechanism in Predicting Outcomes in Fetal Bradycardia: A Single-Centre Retrospective Study from a Dedicated Fetal Cardiology Unit in South India. JOURNAL OF FETAL MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40556-020-00264-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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31
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Strand S, Strasburger JF, Cuneo BF, Wakai RT. Complex and Novel Arrhythmias Precede Stillbirth in Fetuses With De Novo Long QT Syndrome. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2020; 13:e008082. [PMID: 32421437 DOI: 10.1161/circep.119.008082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a leading cause of sudden cardiac death in early life and has been implicated in ≈10% of sudden infant deaths and unexplained stillbirths. The purpose of our study was to use fetal magnetocardiography to characterize the electrophysiology and rhythm phenotypes of fetuses with de novo and inherited LQTS variants and identify risk factors for sudden death before birth. METHODS We reviewed the fetal magnetocardiography database from the University of Wisconsin Biomagnetism Laboratory for fetuses with confirmed LQTS. We assessed waveform intervals, heart rate, and rhythm, including the signature LQTS rhythms: functional 2° atrioventricular block, T-wave alternans, and torsade de pointes (TdP). RESULTS Thirty-nine fetuses had pathogenic variants in LQTS genes: 27 carried the family variant, 11 had de novo variants, and 1 was indeterminate. De novo variants, especially de novo SCN5A variants, were strongly associated with a severe rhythm phenotype and perinatal death: 9 (82%) showed signature LQTS rhythms, 6 (55%) showed TdP, 5 (45%) were stillborn, and 1 (9%) died in infancy. Those that died exhibited novel fetal rhythms, including atrioventricular block with 3:1 conduction ratio, QRS alternans in 2:1 atrioventricular block, long-cycle length TdP, and slow monomorphic ventricular tachycardia. Premature ventricular contractions were also strongly associated with TdP and perinatal death. Fetuses with familial variants showed a lower incidence of signature LQTS rhythm (6/27=22%), including TdP (3/27=11%). All were live born. CONCLUSIONS The malignancy of de novo LQTS variants was remarkably high and demonstrate that these mutations are a significant cause of stillbirth. Their ability to manifest rhythms not known to be associated with LQTS increases the difficulty of echocardiographic diagnosis and decreases the likelihood that a resultant fetal loss is attributed to LQTS. Registration: URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT03047161.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Strand
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison (S.S. R.T.W.)
| | - Janette F Strasburger
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (J.F.S.)
| | - Bettina F Cuneo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics (B.F.C.), Children's Hospital Colorado & University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora.,The Colorado Fetal Care Center (B.F.C), Children's Hospital Colorado & University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - Ronald T Wakai
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison (S.S. R.T.W.)
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32
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Cuneo BF, Kaizer AM, Clur SA, Swan H, Herberg U, Winbo A, Rydberg A, Haugaa K, Etheridge S, Ackerman MJ, Dagradi F, Killen SA, Wacker-Gussmann A, Benson DW, Wilde A, Pan Z, Lam A, Spazzolini C, Horigome H, Schwartz PJ. Mothers with long QT syndrome are at increased risk for fetal death: findings from a multicenter international study. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2020; 222:263.e1-263.e11. [PMID: 31520628 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2019.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most fetal deaths are unexplained. Long QT syndrome is a genetic disorder of cardiac ion channels. Affected individuals, including fetuses, are predisposed to sudden death. We sought to determine the risk of fetal death in familial long QT syndrome, in which the mother or father carries the long QT syndrome genotype. In addition, we assessed whether risk differed if the long QT syndrome genotype was inherited from the mother or father. OBJECTIVE This was a retrospective review of pregnancies in families with the 3 most common heterozygous pathogenic long QT syndrome genotypes in KCNQ1 (LQT1), KCNH2 (LQT2), or SCN5A (LQT3), which occur in approximately 1 in 2000 individuals. The purpose of our study was to compare pregnancy and birth outcomes in familial long QT syndrome with the normal population and between maternal and paternal carriers of the long QT syndrome genotype. We hypothesized that fetal death before (miscarriage) and after (stillbirths) 20 weeks gestation would be increased in familial long QT syndrome compared with the normal population and that the parent of origin would not affect birth outcomes. STUDY DESIGN Our study was a multicenter observational case series of 148 pregnancies from 103 families (80 mothers, 23 fathers) with familial long QT syndrome (60 with LQT1, 29 with LQT2, 14 with LQT3) who were recruited from 11 international centers with expertise in hereditary heart rhythm diseases, pediatric and/or adult electrophysiology, and high-risk pregnancies. Clinical databases from these sites were reviewed for long QT syndrome that occurred in men or women of childbearing age (18-40 years). Pregnancy outcomes (livebirth, stillbirth, and miscarriage), birthweights, and gestational age at delivery were compared among long QT syndrome genotypes and between maternal vs paternal long QT syndrome-affected status with the use of logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Most offspring (80%; 118/148) were liveborn at term; 66% of offspring (73/110) had long QT syndrome. Newborn infants of mothers with long QT syndrome were delivered earlier and, when the data were controlled for gestational age, weighed less than newborn infants of long QT syndrome fathers. Fetal arrhythmias were observed rarely, but stillbirths (fetal death at >20 weeks gestation) were 8 times more frequent in long QT syndrome (4% vs approximately 0.5%); miscarriages (fetal death at ≤20 weeks gestation) were 2 times that of the general population (16% vs 8%). The likelihood of fetal death was significantly greater with maternal vs paternal long QT syndrome (24.4% vs 3.4%; P=.036). Only 10% of all fetal deaths underwent postmortem long QT syndrome testing; 2 of 3 cases were positive for the family long QT syndrome genotype. CONCLUSION This is the first report to demonstrate that mothers with long QT syndrome are at increased risk of fetal death and to uncover a previously unreported cause of stillbirth. Our results suggest that maternal effects of long QT syndrome channelopathy may cause placental or myometrial dysfunction that confers increased susceptibility to fetal death and growth restriction in newborn survivors, regardless of long QT syndrome status.
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33
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Clur SAB, Vink AS, Etheridge SP, Robles de Medina PG, Rydberg A, Ackerman MJ, Wilde AA, Blom NA, Benson DW, Herberg U, Donofrio MT, Cuneo BF. Left Ventricular Isovolumetric Relaxation Time Is Prolonged in Fetal Long-QT Syndrome. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2019; 11:e005797. [PMID: 29654130 DOI: 10.1161/circep.117.005797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-QT syndrome (LQTS), an inherited cardiac repolarization disorder, is an important cause of fetal and neonatal mortality. Detecting LQTS prenatally is challenging. A fetal heart rate (FHR) less than third percentile for gestational age is specific for LQTS, but the sensitivity is only ≈50%. Left ventricular isovolumetric relaxation time (LVIRT) was evaluated as a potential diagnostic marker for fetal LQTS. METHODS AND RESULTS LV isovolumetric contraction time, LV ejection time, LVIRT, cycle length, and FHR were measured using pulsed Doppler waveforms in fetuses. Time intervals were expressed as percentages of cycle length, and the LV myocardial performance index was calculated. Single measurements were stratified by gestational age and compared between LQTS fetuses and controls. Receiver-operator curves were performed for FHR and normalized LVIRT (N-LVIRT). A linear mixed-effect model including multiple measurements was used to analyze trends in FHR, N-LVIRT, and LV myocardial performance index. There were 33 LQTS fetuses and 469 controls included. In LQTS fetuses, the LVIRT was prolonged in all gestational age groups (P<0.001), as was the N-LVIRT. The best cutoff to diagnose LQTS was N-LVIRT ≥11.3 at ≤20 weeks (92% sensitivity, 70% specificity). Simultaneous analysis of N-LVIRT and FHR improved the sensitivity and specificity for LQTS (area under the curve=0.96; 95% confidence interval, 0.82-1.00 at 21-30 weeks). N-LVIRT, LV myocardial performance index, and FHR trends differed significantly between LQTS fetuses and controls through gestation. CONCLUSIONS The LVIRT is prolonged in LQTS fetuses. Findings of a prolonged N-LVIRT and sinus bradycardia can improve the prenatal detection of fetal LQTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally-Ann B Clur
- Departments of Pediatric Cardiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (S.-A.B.C., A.S.V., P.G.R.d.M., A.A.W., N.A.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah & Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City (S.P.E.). Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Sweden (A.R.). Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (M.J.A.). Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (D.W.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Germany (U.H.). Pediatric Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC (M.T.D.). The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver (B.F.C.).
| | - Arja S Vink
- Departments of Pediatric Cardiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (S.-A.B.C., A.S.V., P.G.R.d.M., A.A.W., N.A.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah & Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City (S.P.E.). Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Sweden (A.R.). Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (M.J.A.). Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (D.W.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Germany (U.H.). Pediatric Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC (M.T.D.). The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver (B.F.C.)
| | - Susan P Etheridge
- Departments of Pediatric Cardiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (S.-A.B.C., A.S.V., P.G.R.d.M., A.A.W., N.A.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah & Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City (S.P.E.). Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Sweden (A.R.). Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (M.J.A.). Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (D.W.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Germany (U.H.). Pediatric Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC (M.T.D.). The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver (B.F.C.)
| | - Pascale G Robles de Medina
- Departments of Pediatric Cardiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (S.-A.B.C., A.S.V., P.G.R.d.M., A.A.W., N.A.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah & Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City (S.P.E.). Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Sweden (A.R.). Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (M.J.A.). Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (D.W.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Germany (U.H.). Pediatric Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC (M.T.D.). The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver (B.F.C.)
| | - Annika Rydberg
- Departments of Pediatric Cardiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (S.-A.B.C., A.S.V., P.G.R.d.M., A.A.W., N.A.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah & Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City (S.P.E.). Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Sweden (A.R.). Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (M.J.A.). Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (D.W.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Germany (U.H.). Pediatric Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC (M.T.D.). The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver (B.F.C.)
| | - Michael J Ackerman
- Departments of Pediatric Cardiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (S.-A.B.C., A.S.V., P.G.R.d.M., A.A.W., N.A.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah & Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City (S.P.E.). Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Sweden (A.R.). Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (M.J.A.). Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (D.W.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Germany (U.H.). Pediatric Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC (M.T.D.). The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver (B.F.C.)
| | - Arthur A Wilde
- Departments of Pediatric Cardiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (S.-A.B.C., A.S.V., P.G.R.d.M., A.A.W., N.A.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah & Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City (S.P.E.). Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Sweden (A.R.). Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (M.J.A.). Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (D.W.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Germany (U.H.). Pediatric Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC (M.T.D.). The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver (B.F.C.)
| | - Nico A Blom
- Departments of Pediatric Cardiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (S.-A.B.C., A.S.V., P.G.R.d.M., A.A.W., N.A.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah & Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City (S.P.E.). Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Sweden (A.R.). Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (M.J.A.). Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (D.W.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Germany (U.H.). Pediatric Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC (M.T.D.). The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver (B.F.C.)
| | - D Woodrow Benson
- Departments of Pediatric Cardiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (S.-A.B.C., A.S.V., P.G.R.d.M., A.A.W., N.A.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah & Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City (S.P.E.). Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Sweden (A.R.). Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (M.J.A.). Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (D.W.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Germany (U.H.). Pediatric Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC (M.T.D.). The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver (B.F.C.)
| | - Ulrike Herberg
- Departments of Pediatric Cardiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (S.-A.B.C., A.S.V., P.G.R.d.M., A.A.W., N.A.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah & Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City (S.P.E.). Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Sweden (A.R.). Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (M.J.A.). Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (D.W.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Germany (U.H.). Pediatric Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC (M.T.D.). The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver (B.F.C.)
| | - Mary T Donofrio
- Departments of Pediatric Cardiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (S.-A.B.C., A.S.V., P.G.R.d.M., A.A.W., N.A.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah & Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City (S.P.E.). Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Sweden (A.R.). Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (M.J.A.). Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (D.W.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Germany (U.H.). Pediatric Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC (M.T.D.). The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver (B.F.C.)
| | - Bettina F Cuneo
- Departments of Pediatric Cardiology, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands (S.-A.B.C., A.S.V., P.G.R.d.M., A.A.W., N.A.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah & Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City (S.P.E.). Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics, Umeå University, Sweden (A.R.). Department of Cardiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN (M.J.A.). Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (D.W.B.). Department of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Bonn, Germany (U.H.). Pediatric Cardiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC (M.T.D.). The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver (B.F.C.)
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Pedra SRFF, Zielinsky P, Binotto CN, Martins CN, Fonseca ESVBD, Guimarães ICB, Corrêa IVDS, Pedrosa KLM, Lopes LM, Nicoloso LHS, Barberato MFA, Zamith MM. Brazilian Fetal Cardiology Guidelines - 2019. Arq Bras Cardiol 2019; 112:600-648. [PMID: 31188968 PMCID: PMC6555576 DOI: 10.5935/abc.20190075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Simone R F Fontes Pedra
- Instituto Dante Pazzanese de Cardiologia, São Paulo, SP - Brazil.,Hospital do Coração (HCor), São Paulo, SP - Brazil
| | - Paulo Zielinsky
- Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS - Brazil
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35
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Batra AS, Balaji S. Fetal arrhythmias: Diagnosis and management. Indian Pacing Electrophysiol J 2019; 19:104-109. [PMID: 30817991 PMCID: PMC6531664 DOI: 10.1016/j.ipej.2019.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This article reviews important features for improving the diagnosis and management of fetal arrhythmias. The normal fetal heart rate ranges between 110 and 160 beats per minute. A fetal heart rate is considered abnormal if the heart rate is beyond the normal ranges or the rhythm is irregular. The rate, duration, and origin of the rhythm and degree of irregularity usually determine the potential for hemodynamic consequences. Most of the fetal rhythm disturbances are the result of premature atrial contractions (PACs) and are of little clinical significance. Other arrhythmias include tachyarrhythmias (heart rate in excess of 160 beats/min) such as atrioventricular (AV) reentry tachycardia, atrial flutter, and ventricular tachycardia, and bradyarrhythmias (heart rate <110 beats/min) such as sinus node dysfunction, complete heart block (CHB) and long QT syndrome (which is associated with sinus bradycardia and pseudo-heart block).
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjan S Batra
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
| | - Seshadri Balaji
- Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
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36
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Carvalho JS. Fetal dysrhythmias. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2019; 58:28-41. [PMID: 30738635 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Revised: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Fetal dysrhythmias are common abnormalities, usually manifesting as irregular rhythms. Although most irregularities are benign and caused by isolated atrial ectopics, in a few cases, rhythm irregularity may indicate partial atrioventricular block, which has different etiological and prognostic implications. We provide a flowchart for the initial management of irregular rhythm to help select cases requiring urgent specialist referral. Tachycardias and bradycardias are less frequent, can lead to hemodynamic compromise, and may require in utero therapy. Pharmacological treatment of tachycardia depends on the type (supraventricular tachycardia or atrial flutter) and presence of hydrops, with digoxin, flecainide, and sotalol being commonly used. An ongoing randomized trial may best inform about their efficacy. Bradycardia due to blocked bigeminy normally resolves spontaneously, but if it is due to established complete heart block, there is no effective treatment. Ongoing research suggests hydroxychloroquine may reduce the risk of autoimmune atrioventricular block. Sinus bradycardia (rate <3rd centile) may be a prenatal marker for long-QT syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julene S Carvalho
- Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, Sydney Street, London, SW3 6NP, UK; Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's University Hospital, Blackshaw Road, London, SW17 0QT, UK; Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.
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Crotti L, Ghidoni A, Dagradi F. Genetics of Adult and Fetal Forms of Long QT Syndrome. GENETIC CAUSES OF CARDIAC DISEASE 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-27371-2_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Wacker-Gussmann A, Plankl C, Sewald M, Schneider KTM, Oberhoffer R, Lobmaier SM. Fetal cardiac time intervals in healthy pregnancies - an observational study by fetal ECG (Monica Healthcare System). J Perinat Med 2018; 46:587-592. [PMID: 28453441 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2017-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fetal electrocardiogram (fECG) can detect QRS signals in fetuses from as early as 17 weeks' gestation; however, the technique is limited by the minute size of the fetal signal relative to noise ratio. The aim of this study was to evaluate precise fetal cardiac time intervals (fCTIs) with the help of a newly developed fetal ECG device (Monica Healthcare System). METHODS In a prospective manner we included 15-18 healthy fetuses per gestational week from 32 weeks onwards. The small and wearable Monica AN24 monitoring system uses standard ECG electrodes placed on the maternal abdomen to monitor fECG, maternal ECG and uterine electromyogram (EMG). Fetal CTIs were estimated on 1000 averaged fetal heart beats. Detection was deemed successful if there was a global signal loss of less than 30% and an analysis loss of the Monica AN24 signal separation analysis of less than 50%. Fetal CTIs were determined visually by three independent measurements. RESULTS A total of 149 fECGs were performed. After applying the requirements 117 fECGs remained for CTI analysis. While the onset and termination of P-wave and QRS-complex could be easily identified in most ECG patterns (97% for P-wave, PQ and PR interval and 100% for QRS-complex), the T-wave was detectable in only 41% of the datasets. The CTI results were comparable to other available methods such as fetal magnetocardiography (fMCG). CONCLUSIONS Although limited and preclinical in its use, fECG (Monica Healthcare System) could be an additional useful tool to detect precise fCTIs from 32 weeks' gestational age onwards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Wacker-Gussmann
- Institute of Preventive Pediatrics, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences and German Heart Center, Pediatric Cardiology, Munich, Germany
| | - Cordula Plankl
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Maria Sewald
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Karl-Theo Maria Schneider
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Renate Oberhoffer
- Institute of Preventive Pediatrics, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences and German Heart Center, Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Congenital Heart Defects, Munich, Germany
| | - Silvia M Lobmaier
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
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39
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Wilders R, Verkerk AO. Long QT Syndrome and Sinus Bradycardia-A Mini Review. Front Cardiovasc Med 2018; 5:106. [PMID: 30123799 PMCID: PMC6085426 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2018.00106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital long-QT syndrome (LQTS) is an inherited cardiac disorder characterized by the prolongation of ventricular repolarization, susceptibility to Torsades de Pointes (TdP), and a risk for sudden death. Various types of congenital LQTS exist, all due to specific defects in ion channel-related genes. Interestingly, almost all of the ion channels affected by the various types of LQTS gene mutations are also expressed in the human sinoatrial node (SAN). It is therefore not surprising that LQTS is frequently associated with a change in basal heart rate (HR). However, current data on how the LQTS-associated ion channel defects result in impaired human SAN pacemaker activity are limited. In this mini-review, we provide an overview of known LQTS mutations with effects on HR and the underlying changes in expression and kinetics of ion channels. Sinus bradycardia has been reported in relation to a large number of LQTS mutations. However, the occurrence of both QT prolongation and sinus bradycardia on a family basis is almost completely limited to LQTS types 3 and 4 (LQT3 and Ankyrin-B syndrome, respectively). Furthermore, a clear causative role of this sinus bradycardia in cardiac events seems reserved to mutations underlying LQT3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Wilders
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Arie O Verkerk
- Department of Medical Biology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Abstract
This article reviews important features for improving the diagnosis of fetal arrhythmias by ultrasound in prenatal cardiac screening and echocardiography. Transient fetal arrhythmias are more common than persistent fetal arrhythmias. However, persistent severe bradycardia and sustained tachycardia may cause fetal hydrops, preterm delivery, and higher perinatal morbidity and mortality. Hence, the diagnosis of these arrhythmias during the routine obstetric ultrasound, before the progression to hydrops, is crucial and represents a challenge that involves a team of specialists and subspecialists on fetal ultrasonography. The images in this review highlight normal cardiac rhythms as well as pathologic cases consistent with premature atrial and ventricular contractions, heart block, supraventricular tachycardia (VT), atrial flutter, and VT. In this review, the details of a variety of arrhythmias in fetuses were provided by M-mode and Doppler ultrasound/echocardiography with high-quality imaging, enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Moreover, an update on the intrauterine management and treatment of many arrhythmias is provided, focusing on improving outcomes to enable planned delivery and perinatal management.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luciane Alves Rocha
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Edward Araujo Júnior
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
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41
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Winbo A, Rydberg A. Fetal heart rate reflects mutation burden and clinical outcome in twin probands with KCNQ1 mutations. HeartRhythm Case Rep 2018; 4:237-240. [PMID: 29922582 PMCID: PMC6006493 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrcr.2018.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Annika Winbo
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Pediatrics, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Annika Rydberg
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Pediatrics, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Blais BA, Satou G, Sklansky MS, Madnawat H, Moore JP. The diagnosis and management of long QT syndrome based on fetal echocardiography. HeartRhythm Case Rep 2017; 3:407-410. [PMID: 28948143 PMCID: PMC5601325 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrcr.2017.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin A. Blais
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, and University of California Los Angeles Mattel Children's Hospital, Los Angeles, California
| | - Gary Satou
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, and University of California Los Angeles Mattel Children's Hospital, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mark S. Sklansky
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, and University of California Los Angeles Mattel Children's Hospital, Los Angeles, California
| | - Himani Madnawat
- College of Physical Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jeremy P. Moore
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, and University of California Los Angeles Mattel Children's Hospital, Los Angeles, California
- Address reprint requests and correspondence: Dr Jeremy P. Moore, UCLA Medical Center, 200 Medical Plaza Dr, Suite 330, Los Angeles, CA 90095.UCLA Medical Center200 Medical Plaza Dr, Suite 330Los AngelesCA90095
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43
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Wacker-Gussmann A, Wakai RT, Strasburger JF. Importance of Fetal Arrhythmias to the Neonatologist and Pediatrician. Neoreviews 2016; 17:e568-e578. [PMID: 28042286 PMCID: PMC5193162 DOI: 10.1542/neo.17-10-e568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Sudden, unexplained death during the perinatal period remains a major, longstanding challenge. Recent advances in diagnostic techniques and genetic testing has provided evidence that a significant fraction of these deaths may result from lethal cardiac arrhythmias. In this paper, we review current methods of diagnosing arrhythmia in the fetus and strategies for management of life-threatening arrhythmia throughout the perinatal period, including transitional care at the time of delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Wacker-Gussmann
- Institute of Preventive Pediatrics, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, and German Heart Center, Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Congenital Heart Defects, Munich, Germany
| | - Ronald T Wakai
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, USA
| | - Janette F Strasburger
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin- Milwaukee and Fox Valley, 9000 W Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226, USA
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44
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Abstract
Somatic mosaicism, the occurrence and propagation of genetic variation in cell lineages after fertilization, is increasingly recognized to play a causal role in a variety of human diseases. We investigated the case of life-threatening arrhythmia in a 10-day-old infant with long QT syndrome (LQTS). Rapid genome sequencing suggested a variant in the sodium channel NaV1.5 encoded by SCN5A, NM_000335:c.5284G > T predicting p.(V1762L), but read depth was insufficient to be diagnostic. Exome sequencing of the trio confirmed read ratios inconsistent with Mendelian inheritance only in the proband. Genotyping of single circulating leukocytes demonstrated the mutation in the genomes of 8% of patient cells, and RNA sequencing of cardiac tissue from the infant confirmed the expression of the mutant allele at mosaic ratios. Heterologous expression of the mutant channel revealed significantly delayed sodium current with a dominant negative effect. To investigate the mechanism by which mosaicism might cause arrhythmia, we built a finite element simulation model incorporating Purkinje fiber activation. This model confirmed the pathogenic consequences of cardiac cellular mosaicism and, under the presenting conditions of this case, recapitulated 2:1 AV block and arrhythmia. To investigate the extent to which mosaicism might explain undiagnosed arrhythmia, we studied 7,500 affected probands undergoing commercial gene-panel testing. Four individuals with pathogenic variants arising from early somatic mutation events were found. Here we establish cardiac mosaicism as a causal mechanism for LQTS and present methods by which the general phenomenon, likely to be relevant for all genetic diseases, can be detected through single-cell analysis and next-generation sequencing.
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45
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Cuneo BF, Strasburger JF, Wakai RT. The natural history of fetal long QT syndrome. J Electrocardiol 2016; 49:807-813. [PMID: 27539165 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2016.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Fetal magnetocardiography (fMCG), the magnetic analog of ECG, has provided invaluable insight into the mechanisms of fetal arrhythmias. In the past 15years, we have evaluated over 300 fetuses with arrhythmia by fMCG. We review the unique characteristics and natural history of the long QT syndrome (LQTS) rhythms. METHODS We reviewed the fMCGs of subjects referred with suspected LQTS based on either a positive family history or echo diagnosis of the LQTS rhythms (sinus bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia, or 2:1 AV conduction) to the Biomagnetism laboratory in the Department of Medical Physics, UW-Madison. We recorded fMCGs using a 37-channel (Magnes, 4D Neuroimaging, Inc., San Diego, CA) superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) biomagnetometer, housed in a magnetically-shielded room for 1200-6000s. Signal processing was used to remove maternal interference. Cardiac intervals (R-R, p, QRS, QT) were measured and compared to published normals. We correlated fetal heart rate (FHR) patterns and effects of fetal movement on FHR and rhythm using actocardiography. RESULTS Thirty-nine fetuses were studied at a mean of 28 (19-38) weeks of gestation. All had structurally normal hearts. One was on amiodarone for suspected supraventricular tachycardia and hydrops. Five had serial fMCGs. Isolated sinus bradycardia with a QTc >490ms was found in 35: 33 had a KCNQ1 mutation There was one false positive and one false negative LQTS diagnosis. Four fetuses had torsades de pointes (TdP) and 3 had periods of 2:1 conduction and either KCNH2 or SCN5A mutations. TdP was rarely initiated with a preceding long-short pattern and did not degenerate into ventricular fibrillation. One fetus with TdP died in utero, 2 with fetal TdP had postnatal cardiac arrest. CONCLUSION Fetal LQTS is diagnosed by an fMCG QTc >490ms with an 89% sensitivity and specificity. TdP are seen with uncharacterized, KCNH2 or SCN5A R1623q mutations. Fetal TdP occurs when QTc ≥620ms. Identifying fetal LQTS and defining its rhythms by fMCG risk stratifies postnatal management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina F Cuneo
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Department of Pediatrics, Heart Institute, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO.
| | - Janette F Strasburger
- Children's Hospital of Wisconsin Department of Pediatrics, Section of Cardiology, the Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Ronald T Wakai
- The Biomagnetism Laboratory, Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
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46
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Flöck A, Herberg U, Gembruch U, Merz WM. Clinical spectrum of fetal long QT syndrome: a single-center experience. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2016; 28:1731-5. [PMID: 25245225 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2014.967205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A considerable proportion of unexplained intrauterine fetal deaths are attributed to long QT syndrome (LQTS) susceptibility. Additionally, the estimated prevalence of LQTS in newborns is 1 in 2000. Still, prenatal diagnosis of LQTS is very rare. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of prenatal diagnosis of LQTS at our institution, present the cases, compare our findings with the existing literature and propose a possible screening approach. METHODS We searched our fetal database between 2006 and 2013 for cases with suspected diagnosis of LQTS. RESULTS During the investigation period around 26 000 fetuses were evaluated and three cases of suspected fetal LQTS identified. Two cases of familial LQTS had no or mild intrauterine manifestation of the condition, the third fetus had a de-novo mutation with severe, early-onset disease. CONCLUSIONS LQTS continues to be a challenging prenatal diagnosis. In fetuses who present with complex arrhythmias, a high degree of suspicion is required, and close surveillance and timely delivery in the presence of a multidisciplinary team are necessary. For asymptomatic cases or screening purposes, routine fetal heart rate registration and detailed assessment of cases with a low for gestational age baseline may be an option.
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47
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Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias are an important aspect of fetal and neonatal medicine. Premature complexes of atrial or ventricular origin are the main cause of an irregular heart rhythm. The finding is typically unrelated to an identifiable cause and no treatment is required. Tachyarrhythmia most commonly relates to supraventricular reentrant tachycardia, atrial flutter, and sinus tachycardia. Several antiarrhythmic agents are available for the perinatal treatment of tachyarrhythmias. Enduring bradycardia may result from sinus node dysfunction, complete heart block and nonconducted atrial bigeminy as the main arrhythmia mechanisms. The management and outcome of bradycardia depend on the underlying mechanism.
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MESH Headings
- Anti-Arrhythmia Agents/therapeutic use
- Arrhythmias, Cardiac/diagnosis
- Arrhythmias, Cardiac/drug therapy
- Atrial Flutter/diagnosis
- Atrial Flutter/drug therapy
- Atrial Premature Complexes/diagnosis
- Atrial Premature Complexes/drug therapy
- Bradycardia/diagnosis
- Bradycardia/drug therapy
- Electrocardiography
- Fetal Diseases/diagnosis
- Fetal Diseases/drug therapy
- Heart Block/diagnosis
- Heart Block/drug therapy
- Humans
- Infant, Newborn
- Infant, Newborn, Diseases/diagnosis
- Infant, Newborn, Diseases/drug therapy
- Sick Sinus Syndrome/diagnosis
- Sick Sinus Syndrome/drug therapy
- Tachycardia, Sinus/diagnosis
- Tachycardia, Sinus/drug therapy
- Tachycardia, Supraventricular/diagnosis
- Tachycardia, Supraventricular/drug therapy
- Ventricular Premature Complexes/diagnosis
- Ventricular Premature Complexes/drug therapy
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Jaeggi
- Labatt Family Heart Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada.
| | - Annika Öhman
- Labatt Family Heart Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8, Canada
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48
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Affiliation(s)
- Naokata Sumitomo
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center
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49
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Sonesson SE, Acharya G. Hemodynamics in fetal arrhythmia. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2015; 95:697-709. [PMID: 26660845 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.12837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/03/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Fetal arrhythmias are among the few conditions that can be managed in utero. However, accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate management. Ultrasound-based imaging methods can be used to study fetal heart structure and function noninvasively and help to understand fetal cardiovascular pathophysiology, and they remain the mainstay of evaluating fetuses with arrhythmias in clinical settings. Hemodynamic evaluation using Doppler echocardiography allows the elucidation of the electrophysiological mechanism and helps to make an accurate diagnosis. It can also be used as a tool to understand fetal cardiac pathophysiology, for assessing fetal condition and monitoring the effect of antiarrhythmic treatment. This narrative review describes Doppler techniques that are useful for evaluating fetal cardiac rhythms to refine diagnosis and provides an overview of hemodynamic changes observed in different types of fetal arrhythmia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sven-Erik Sonesson
- Pediatric Cardiology Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ganesh Acharya
- Women's Health and Perinatology Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Northern Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this study is to update the perinatal cardiologist and obstetrical care provider on the presentation and management of the fetus with long QT syndrome (LQTS). RECENT FINDINGS LQTS is a known cause of sudden death in childhood, adolescence and young adulthood that presents during fetal life, but is often not recognized. Torsades de pointes (TdP) ±2° atrioventricular block (AVB) are not always attributed to LQTS, although the most common LQTS rhythm, a fetal heart rate of less than third percentile for gestational age (GA), is not recognized as abnormal because it does not meet the standard obstetrical criteria for bradycardia. Early recognition and appropriate treatment can be life saving for the fetus and unsuspecting LQTS family members. Fetal rhythm phenotype and postnatal QTc can predict postnatal rhythm and suggest genotype: bradycardic fetuses usually have KCNQ1 mutation, while those with TdP and/or a postnatal QTc more than 500 ms have SCN5A, KCNH2 or uncharacterized mutations. SUMMARY The fetus with repeated heart rates of less than third percentile of GA and those with TdP ±2° AVB are likely to manifest the same rhythm after birth and have an LQTS mutation.
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