Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Rottweiler fainting from heart block linked to heart base tumor
By Schuller, S et al.·Published in Journal of veterinary medicine. A, Physiology, pathology, clinical medicine·2007·Department of Small Animal Clinical Studies·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Third degree atrioventricular block and accelerated idioventricular rhythm associated with a heart base chemodectoma in a syncopal Rottweiler.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A 7-year-old male Rottweiler was brought in after showing signs of lethargy, not eating, vomiting, and experiencing fainting spells for a week. Tests revealed he had a serious heart condition called third-degree atrioventricular block, which affects how the heart beats. Despite trying a medication to help his heart rhythm, he didn't improve, and the owners chose to euthanize him. A later examination found a tumor at the base of his heart, which may have contributed to his heart issues.
People also search for: Rottweiler heart problems · dog fainting spells · chemodectoma in dogs · heart block treatment in dogs
Abstract
A 7-year-old male intact Rottweiler was presented with a 1-week history of lethargy, anorexia, vomiting and multiple syncopal events. The results of the clinical examination and electrocardiography were consistent with a third degree atrioventricular block and an intermittent accelerated idioventricular rhythm. Haematology, serum biochemistry, serology for Borrelia burgdorferi, blood culture, total T4, thoracic radiography and echocardiography did not reveal the cause of the arrhythmia. Response to medical treatment with isoproterenol was poor. Pacemaker placement was declined by the owners and the dog was euthanized at their request. Histopathological examination of the heart revealed a chemodectoma at the base of the heart. There was no neoplastic infiltration of the conduction tissue. Potential mechanisms explaining the association of the arrhythmias and the tumour, such as vagal stimulation and neuroendocrine factors are discussed.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18045349/