Resolved Atrioventricular Block and Left Ventricular Dysfunction in Wegener’s Granulomatosis

Introduction: Wegener’s granulomatosis, now known as granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), is a rare but severe systemic vasculitis primarily affecting the respiratory tract and kidneys. However, cardiac involvement, though less common, can significantly impact patient outcomes. This case report explores the complete resolution of atrioventricular (AV) block and severe left ventricular dysfunction in a patient with GPA following cyclophosphamide and corticosteroid therapy. Visit https://www.cardiologymedjournal.com/jccm for more groundbreaking cardiology research.

Case Summary:

• A 59-year-old male presented with dyspnea, weight loss, and severe left ventricular dysfunction (LVEF 30%).
• Initial treatment included beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and loop diuretics, which were later discontinued due to worsening renal function.
• The patient developed complete AV block and required an external pacemaker.
• Treatment with cyclophosphamide and corticosteroids led to complete resolution of AV block and improvement in LVEF to 55%.
• After three months of follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic, with normal cardiac function.

Clinical Significance: Cardiac involvement in GPA can range from mild arrhythmias to severe conduction abnormalities. Inflammatory damage to the cardiac conduction system is rare but reversible with timely immunosuppressive therapy.

Integration of External Medical Sources: The American College of Cardiology (ACC) highlights the importance of early recognition and management of vasculitis-associated cardiac complications to prevent irreversible damage. Effective immunotherapy can reverse conduction defects and restore cardiac function.

Further Reading and Resources

• Read the full study at https://doi.com/10.29328/journal.jccm.1001071.
• Explore related research on vasculitis and cardiology at https://www.cardiologymedjournal.com/jccm.
• More details on cardiac arrhythmias in autoimmune diseases can be found in our journal archives.

Key Takeaways:

• Granulomatosis with polyangiitis can cause reversible cardiac conduction abnormalities.
• Immunotherapy with cyclophosphamide and corticosteroids plays a crucial role in managing cardiac complications.
• Timely intervention can prevent the need for permanent pacemaker implantation.

Call-to-Action: Stay updated with the latest advancements in cardiology! Visit https://www.cardiologymedjournal.com/jccm for more case studies and expert insights. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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