Complete AV Block Caused by Cervical Spondylodiscitis: A Rare Case Report

Abstract

We overview a rare case report of a male patient with complete atrioventricular (AV) block induced by cervical spondylodiscitis. At first, complete AV block was diagnosed and a permanent pace maker was inserted by cardiovascular doctor. Then, he was transferred to an orthopedic outpatient department due to neck and left shoulder pain. Computed tomography (CT) of the cervical spine revealed C5-C6 spondylodiscitis with fluid collection in retropharyngeal space from C2 to C6. The abscess and fluid around the retropharyngeal area compressed the carotid sinus. This caused the vagal tone elevation and as a result complete AV block was induced by this vagotonia. We should consider cervical spine infection for this type rare condition if any degree of AV block combined with neck pain or related neurologic signs are observed. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report to describe complete AV block induced by vagal stimulation from cervical spondylodiscitis.