Sick Sinus Syndrome

Question 1

What is Sick sinus syndrome?

Answer 1

Also called sinoatrial disease.

The sinus node becomes dysfunctional.
It may slow down the rhythm down to sinus bradycardia or sinus pauses.

It can also generate tachyarrhythmias such as AF and atrial tachycardia.

Question 2

Causes of sick sinus syndrome.

Answer 2

It is usually caused by idiopathic fibrosis of the sinus node.
It can also be caused by fibrosis of known cause such as;
IHD
Cardiomyopathy
Myocarditis

Question 3

Symptoms of sick sinus syndrome.

Answer 3

Syncope

Pre-syncope

Light-headed ness

Palpitations

Breathlessness

Question 4

What is tachy-brady syndrome?

Answer 4

A complication of sick sinus syndrome where there is alternating tachycardic and bradycardic rhythms.

Question 5

ECG showing sick sinus syndrome.

Shows tachy-brady episodes as well as sinus pauses.

Question 6

Management of sick sinus syndrome.

Answer 6

Thromboembolism prophylaxis if episodes of AF are detected.

Permanent pacemakers for patients is indicated if there is symptomatic bradycardia or sinus pauses.