title: Sinus node dysfunction as an initial presentation of adult systemic lupus erythematosus.
abstract: Cardiac involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been well described. However, sinus node involvement with profound sinus bradycardia as an early manifestation of adult SLE has not been reported. A 27-year-old previously healthy female was admitted due to intermittent fever for 4 days. SLE was diagnosed based on clinical manifestations and laboratory data. Profound sinus bradycardia (heart rate = 41/min) with weakness was noted during hospitalization. ECG abnormalities completely resolved after a high-dose intravenous steroid infusion. Sinus node involvement with significant bradycardia is one of the possible complications in the early stage of adult SLE. Close cardiovascular monitoring and serial ECGs are suggested for early detection of this serious complication of adult SLE.
authors.affiliation: Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.
authors.forename: Yn
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Lin
authors.forename: Y-M
authors.initials: YM
authors.lastname: Liou
authors.forename: J-Y
authors.initials: JY
authors.lastname: Chen
authors.forename: K-C
authors.initials: KC
authors.lastname: Chang
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D001919:Bradycardia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D004562:Electrocardiography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D008775:Methylprednisolone / Q000008:administration & dosage; D012804:Sick Sinus Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*
chemical_list: D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D008775:Methylprednisolone