First degree atrioventricular block

Eur Heart J. 1984 Mar:5 Suppl A:107-9. doi: 10.1093/eurheartj/5.suppl_a.107.

Abstract

First degree A-V block, defined as prolongation of the PR interval on the surface electrocardiogram, is a not uncommon finding on electrocardiographic screening of asymptomatic young individuals. Prevalences of from 0.65% to 1.1% have been reported. In the majority of cases the PR prolongation may be rendered normal by autonomic intervention. Long-term follow-up studies have indicated that although the risk of subsequent coronary artery disease may be slightly increased, the risk of sudden death, syncope or advanced A-V block is not. Apart from the exclusion of organic heart disease, detailed invasive investigation is not warranted. It is a benign condition and as such no restriction on fitness to fly need be made on these individuals, but there may be a case for increased electrocardiographic scrutiny.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aerospace Medicine*
  • Atrioventricular Node / physiopathology*
  • Bundle of His / physiopathology
  • Bundle-Branch Block / diagnosis
  • Coronary Disease / epidemiology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Electrocardiography
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Heart Block / classification
  • Heart Block / diagnosis*
  • Heart Conduction System / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prognosis
  • Risk