Conduction Disturbances Leading to Heart Failure – What Clinicians Need to Know

Abstract

Recently, pre-excitation syndromes, left bundle branch block (LBBB), and right ventricular pacing have been recognized as causes of cardiomyopathies (CMs). They all have abnormal ventricular activation, that results in what is known as left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony. These three entities show a common feature of wide QRS and LBBB pattern on the electrocardiogram. The term abnormal conduction-induced CM was, then, proposed. Appropriate diagnosis and treatment of these CMs will possibly improve LV ejection fraction, LV functional capacity and reduce morbidity and mortality. In this article we will briefly review these three clinical conditions, aiming to help clinicians to recognize them, manage and refer patients at risk.