Fetal Arrhythmia with a Myriad of Complications
December 2024
in “
NeoReviews
”
Studysummary This case study highlights that maternal autoimmune diseases like Sjogren syndrome may lead to congenital heart block in neonates, necessitating thorough evaluation of maternal medical history when such conditions present postnatally. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.
A 22-year-old primigravida with hypothyroidism gave birth to a neonate with congenital complete heart block, likely due to maternal Sjogren syndrome. The neonate, born at 39 weeks, exhibited severe bradycardia, hemodynamic instability, and dilated cardiomyopathy, requiring emergency interventions including temporary and permanent pacemaker implantation. Despite these efforts, the neonate died suddenly, with potential causes including electrolyte disturbances or pacemaker malfunction. The case highlights the importance of antenatal diagnosis and management of congenital heart block, especially in mothers with autoimmune conditions, as early intervention can significantly impact neonatal outcomes.
