A Case Report of Brugada Syndrome Associated With Physical Trauma

Cureus. 2024 Mar 5;16(3):e55557. doi: 10.7759/cureus.55557. eCollection 2024 Mar.

Abstract

Brugada syndrome is an autosomal dominant channelopathy that usually affects healthy young males without apparent structural heart disease. It is associated with a spectrum of variable and dynamic clinical manifestations, high risk of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. Our patient demonstrated transient and dynamic EKG changes of both type 1 (coved) and type 2 (saddleback) ST elevation, suggestive of the Brugada pattern that was associated with physical chest trauma and stressful situations. While common triggers like fever and certain drugs are well-recognized, this case illustrates the potential for physical stress and trauma to unmask or aggravate Brugada syndrome, albeit without definitive evidence for a causal link. Ultimately, this report underscores the importance of considering a broad differential diagnosis, including Brugada syndrome, in patients presenting with unexplained syncope or characteristic EKG changes, even when traditional triggers are absent.

Keywords: brugada; brugada syndrome; brugada-like pattern; cardiac sudden death; post trauma; ventricular arrhythmia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports