Why the study?
Risk stratification in asymptomatic Brugada syndrome is challenging, and whether PR interval or first-degree atrioventricular block predicts major arrhythmic events remained unclear.
Does first-degree atrioventricular block or prolonged PR interval predict major arrhythmic events in patients with Brugada syndrome?
Does first-degree atrioventricular block or prolonged PR interval predict major arrhythmic events in patients with Brugada syndrome?
First-degree AV block is significantly associated with an increased risk of major arrhythmic events in patients with Brugada syndrome, suggesting its potential utility in risk stratification.
First-degree AV block may refine arrhythmic risk stratification in Brugada syndrome; leaves open need for prospective validation in asymptomatic patients.
Background Risk stratification in patients with asymptomatic Brugada Syndrome is challenging, and despite recent advances, there is no clear evidence. The first‐degree atrioventricular block was hypothesized to be a predictor of arrhythmic events. Measurement of the PR interval and diagnosing atrioventricular block from surface ECG is easy, noninvasive, and cost‐effective. We aimed to assess the latest evidence on PR interval or first‐degree atrioventricular block and major arrhythmic events related to Brugada Syndrome. Methods We performed a comprehensive search in PubMed for “atrioventricular block” OR “PR interval” and “Brugada syndrome.” We included studies that have a component of PR interval and/or first‐degree atrioventricular block and major arrhythmic events related to Brugada Syndrome including syncope/VT/VF/appropriate ICD shocks/ICD implantation. Results We included 1526 subjects from 7 studies. Pooled mean difference of PR interval in 4 studies showed a significant difference [MD 10.77 ms (2.97‐18.57) P = 0.007, moderate‐high heterogeneity I 2 = 53% P = 0.08]. On sensitivity analysis by removing a study, it became MD 6.50 ms [1.97‐11.03], P = 0.005, heterogeneity I 2 = 0% P = 0.52. Indicating that PR interval was prolonged by small margin. Pooled analysis of the association between a first‐degree atrioventricular block and major arrhythmic events was significant [OR 3.33 (2.02‐5.50) P < 0.001, low heterogeneity I 2 = 0% P = 0.57]. Conclusion First‐degree AV block is associated with more frequent major arrhythmic events in Brugada syndrome patients. PR interval seemed to be prolonged but is yet to be determined whether the PR interval association is still significant if it did not cross the first‐degree AVB threshold.
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Pranata et al. (2019) studied this question.
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