Brugada phenocopy

Abstract

Brugada phenocopies are clinical entities that are different from the true Brugada syndrome which is a channelopathy. Brugada phenocopy has reversible underlying conditions and, if underlying conditions resolve, the ECG pattern disappears. In this paper the author reviews and illustrates the known Brugada phenocopies. The most important etiologic categories of Brugada phenocopy include metabolic abnormalities (most commonly hyperkalemia), myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism (massive), right ventricular mechanical compression, and others. The most important clinical issue is the different treatment of the Brugada syndrome and phenocopies in order to prevent cardiac death. In Brugada syndrome the implantable cardioverter defibrillator is the only effective treatment, while in Brugada phenocopies early, etiology-specific treatment can prevent cardiac death.