Second-degree atrioventricular block as an early manifestation of adult systemic lupus erythematosus

J Microbiol Immunol Infect. 2005 Aug;38(4):296-9.

Abstract

Second-degree atrioventricular (AV) block had not been reported as an early manifestation of adult systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). An 18-year-old woman of SLE presented with asymptomatic second-degree AV block with 2:1 conduction block on electrocardiogram (ECG) during admission. Serologic tests were negative for anti-Sjögren's syndrome A (anti-SS-A/Ro) and anti-SS-B/La antibodies, but positive for anti-ribonuclearprotein antibodies. Her abnormal ECG completely resolved soon after high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone infusion, and she was maintained successfully with a low dose of oral steroid. The possible pathogenesis of this complication is discussed. Follow-up with periodical ECG is recommended for adult lupus patients to screen for possible conduction system involvement, and treatment should be started as soon as possible.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Autoantigens / immunology
  • Electrocardiography
  • Female
  • Heart Block / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / complications*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / immunology
  • Ribonucleoproteins / blood
  • snRNP Core Proteins

Substances

  • Autoantigens
  • Ribonucleoproteins
  • SS-A antigen
  • snRNP Core Proteins