Third degree heart block
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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|---|---|
| ICD-10 | I44.2 |
| ICD-9 | 426.0 |
| DiseasesDB | 10477 |
| eMedicine | emerg/235 |
Third degree heart block, also known as complete heart block or third degree AV block, is a defect of the electrical system of the heart, in which the impulse generated in the atria (typically the SA node on top of the right atrium) does not propagate to the ventricles.
Because the impulse is blocked, an accessory pacemaker below the level of the block will typically activate the ventricles. This is known as an escape rhythm. Since this accessory pacemaker activates independently of the impulse generated at the SA node, two independent rhythms can be noted on the electrocardiogram (EKG). One will activate the atria and create the P waves, typically with a regular P to P interval. The second will activate the ventricles and produce the QRS complex, typically with a regular R to R interval. The PR interval will be variable, as the hallmark of complete heart block is no apparent relationship between P waves and QRS complexes.
[edit] Etiology
Many conditions can cause third degree heart block, but the most common cause is coronary ischemia. Progressive degeneration of the electrical conduction system of the heart can lead to third degree heart block. This may be preceded by first degree AV block, second degree AV block, bundle branch block, or bifascicular block. In addition, acute myocardial infarction may present with third degree AV block.
An inferior wall myocardial infarction may cause damage to the AV node, causing third degree heart block. In this case, the damage is usually transitory, and the AV node may recover. Studies have shown that third degree heart block in the setting of an inferior wall myocardial infarction typically resolves within 2 weeks. The escape rhythm typically originates in the AV junction, producing a narrow complex escape rhythm.
An anterior wall myocardial infarction may damage the distal conduction system of the heart, causing third degree heart block. This is typically extensive, permanent damage to the conduction system, necessitating a permanent pacemaker to be placed. The escape rhythm typically originates in the ventricles, producing a wide complex escape rhythm.
Third degree heart block may also be congenital and has been linked to a condition in the mother called Lupus. It is thought that maternal antibodies may cross the placenta and attack the heart tissue during gestation. The cause of congenital third degree heart block in many patients is unknown. Studies suggest that the prevalence of congenital third degree heart block is between 1 in 15,000 and 1 in 22,000 live births.
