Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Pediatrics : Pediatric Emergency Care

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CME Review Article

Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Pediatrics

Scheller, RoseAnn L. MD*; Johnson, Laurie MD, MS; Lorts, Angela MD, MS; Ryan, Thomas D. MD, PhD

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Pediatric Emergency Care 32(9):p 630-636, September 2016. | DOI: 10.1097/PEC.0000000000000895

Abstract

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) in the pediatric population is a rare and potentially devastating occurrence. An understanding of the differential diagnosis for the etiology of the cardiac arrest allows for the most effective emergency care and provides the patient with the best possible outcome. Pediatric SCA can occur with or without prodromal symptoms and may occur during exercise or rest. The most common cause is arrhythmia secondary to an underlying channelopathy, cardiomyopathy, or myocarditis. After stabilization, evaluation should include electrocardiogram, chest radiograph, and echocardiogram. Management should focus on decreasing the potential for recurring arrhythmia, maintaining cardiac preload, and thoughtful medication use to prevent exacerbation of the underlying condition. The purpose of this review was to provide the emergency physician with a concise and current review of the incidence, differential diagnosis, and management of pediatric patients presenting with SCA.

Copyright © 2016 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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