Brugada Syndrome: Potentially Life-Threatening Heart Rhythm Disorder

There are many conditions that can cause an abnormal heart rhythm such as arterial fibrillation, sick sinus syndrome and supraventricular tachycardia. Any condition that causes the heart to beat abnormally is extremely serious because irregular heart rhythms can cause fainting or sudden cardiac arrest. This also applies to another condition called Brugada syndrome. This syndrome is so serious that it is characterized by sudden death.

Brugada syndrome is heart rhythm disorder that can be inherited and is potentially life-threatening. Pedro and Josep Brugada first introduced the syndrome in 1992. In those who are affected by this syndrome, an Electrocardiogram test will detect a specific abnormal heartbeat called a Brugada Sign.

Most people with this condition don't even realize they have it. They don't have any symptoms and are completely unaware that there is a serious problem brewing inside of them. When symptoms do appear, Brugada syndrome patients experience fainting (caused by the brain not receiving enough blood), irregular heartbeats or palpitations and sudden cardiac arrest. By the time symptoms occur, it could be too late.

Brugada syndrome is usually first diagnosed during young adulthood, but some cases have been diagnosed in children and the elderly. The youngest patient was diagnosed at only 2 years old and the oldest patient diagnosed was 84 years old.

Other tests used for Brugada syndrome are an Electrophysiology test and genetic testing. If an Electrocardiogram test points to Brugada syndrome, then an Electrophysiology test is done to determine where the heart arrhythmia is occurring. This test also shows how severe the syndrome is. Although genetic testing is not needed for diagnosis of the syndrome it is recommended for family members of a Brugada syndrome patient.

The only effective treatment option for Brugada syndrome is an implanted medical device called an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. This is the only treatment that has been proven to work.

Brugada is most common in Asia. The reason for this is unknown and is still being researched. The syndrome affects more men than women and the average age of death caused by Brugada syndrome is 41 years. Although it's not as common, death can occur at any age including infants and young children. Genetics do play a big role in some families, but in most cases of Brugada syndrome the cause is unknown.

Any condition that causes an abnormal heart beat should be treated as soon as possible and monitored closely. Death is inevitable if heart conditions are not treated properly.