Brugada Syndrome, also known as idiopathic ventricular fibrillation, is a primary electrical disease that effects and can cause sudden cardiac arrest in people of all ages. It was originally discovered after an infant and young child in Poland in the 1990s both died from it. A ventricular tachyarrhythmia usually causes sudden death during rest or sleep. No structural heart abnormalities are detected. The prevalence of Brugada Syndrome is estimated in 1:5000 to 10,000 people in the U.S. It is thought to usually be genetic, but may also be acquired from certain medications.
Symptoms
- Fainting episodes
- Cardiac arrest
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually determined with an electrocardiogram. A right bundle branch block with ST-elevation may be detected in the right precordial leads.
Treatment
Treatment may include the placement of an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD).
Cardiologists have identified a new gene responsible for cardiac arrest in people with Brugada Syndrome. To review this article, please see:
www.healthnewsdigest.com/news/Heart_Health_410/Cardiologists_Identify_New_Gene.shtml
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