Open AccessThe Value of the Surface ECG for the Diagnosis and Management of Lyme Carditis: A Case Report
Author(s) -
Cynthia Yeung,
Mohammed Alturki,
Adrián Baranchuk
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
current cardiology reviews
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1875-6557
pISSN - 1573-403X
DOI - 10.2174/1573403x16666200312101751
Subject(s) - medicine , lyme disease , differential diagnosis , atrioventricular block , antibiotic therapy , carditis , lyme , cardiology , disease , pediatrics , antibiotics , borrelia burgdorferi , pathology , immunology , microbiology and biotechnology , biology , antibody
Lyme carditis (LC) is an early-disseminated manifestation of Lyme disease, most commonly presenting as a high-degree atrioventricular block (AVB). The degree of AVB can fluctuate rapidly within minutes, and progression to third-degree AVB is potentially fatal if not recognized and managed promptly. However, the AVB in LC is often transient and usually resolves with appropriate antibiotic therapy. LC should be on the differential diagnosis in young patients presenting with new high-degree AVB and factors that increase the index of suspicion for Lyme disease. The Suspicious Index in Lyme Carditis (SILC) score helps clinicians risk-stratify for LC. A systematic approach to the diagnosis and treatment of LC minimizes the unnecessary implantation of permanent pacemakers.