Current Pediatric Research

Background: Arrhythmias is a relatively unexplored arena of pediatric cardiology. The clinical presentation, types and management is highly variable. Recognition of pediatric arrhythmias is essential as prompt treatment can be lifesaving. Objective: To study the clinical and etiological profile of arrhythmias in children in IPD patients in tertiary care center in Delhi. Methods: The study consisted of 27 consecutive children, 1 month-12 years, presenting with cardiac arrhythmias or developing arrhythmias during hospital stay (IPD). Children with sinus arrhythmia, sinus tachycardia, sinus bradycardia and post-operative congenital heart disease patients were excluded from the study. The demography, clinical presentation, underlying heart diseases, electrolyte and blood gas disturbances, treatment modalities and outcome of various arrhythmias was studied. Data was compiled and analyzed using SPSS software. Results: The most common age group was 3 months-2 years. The most common type of arrhythmia was tachyarrhythmia of which supraventricular tachyarrhythmia was the most common. PSVT was the most common supraventricular arrhythmia and the most common arrhythmia overall. Most common risk factor identified was underlying congenital heart disease. Treatment modalities varied depending upon the type and etiology of arrhythmia. Conclusion: Cardiac arrhythmias have a wide variety of clinical manifestations and can present at any time from birth through adolescence. A high index of suspicion is needed as prompt recognition and treatment can be lifesaving.

Author(s): Samir Bhatia*, RN Mandal, Urmila Jhamb, Anurag Agarwal, Priyanka Bhatia, Ajay M

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