Arrhythmias in Children with Normal Heart in Albaha, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: Arrhythmias in children with structurally normal hearts are common and reported as the causes of many hospital admissions. Generally, the risk of death is low. Physical examination is important in children with arrhythmias. Objectives: This study aimed to review the common types and clinical presentations of arrhythmias in children with normal heart structures in Albaha, Saudi Arabia. Methodology: In this hospital-based retrospective cross-sectional study, the medical records of children were reviewed from January 2010 to December 2020. Results: Overall, 214 children were included in this study. The prevalence of arrhythmias was 27.10% in children aged 5-8 years; 18.7%, 8-12 years; 16.82%, 3-5 years; 16.35%, 1-3 years; 13.55%, 12-14 years; and 7.48%, <1 year. Arrhythmias were more frequent in females aged <5 years and in males aged >5 years; however, overall, there was no significant difference between females (47.20%) and males (52.80%). Supraventricular arrhythmias were the commonest and found in 85% of the children and ventricular arrhythmias were found in 15%. Sinus tachycardia was the most common type of arrhythmia, reported in 25% of the children. Conclusion: In general, arrhythmias in the children are asymptomatic. History, clinical examination, and electrocardiography are important for the diagnosis. Supraventricular arrhythmias are the most common. There is no significant difference between females and males with respect to the prevalence of arrhythmias.