Introduction and importance: Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is a rare condition, characterized by fibrillary proteins infiltration in the extracellular space of the heart. Even though many types of cardiac amyloidosis exist, light chain amyloidosis (AL) and transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) remain the most described forms. The diagnosis of amyloidosis represents a real challenge for clinicians, requiring both invasive and non-invasive investigations. Conduction defects and atrial arrhythmias are well known complications of cardiac amyloidosis. However, only a few studies have reported junctional rhythm a primary presentation of light chain cardiac amyloidosis (AL). An early diagnosis and proper management are crucial to improve the prognosis of this disease.
Case presentation: Here, we report a rare case of a 48 year-old patient, in acutely decompensated heart failure, presenting an accelerated junctional rhythm (AJR) as initial presentation of light-chain cardiac amyloidosis. The diagnosis was made based on clinical, biological, radiological and histological findings. This case shows diagnostic difficulties and management of this rare disease.
Keywords: Cardiac amyloidosis; Cardiac arrythmias; Heart failure; Junctional rhythm; Light-chain.
© 2022 The Authors.