Loss of Consciousness While Swimming: Think of Long QT Syndrome

In a case series of 10 children with LQTS and documented history of water-related syncope, failure to consider LQTS after the event was common.

Exercise, including swimming, is a known risk factor for dysrhythmia in children with long QT syndrome (LQTS). Investigators examined the presentation, outcomes, and time to final diagnosis in 10 children identified from a disease registry in New Zealand with LQTS and a history of water-related syncope prior to diagnosis.

Age at the time of the water-related syncope event ranged from 3 to 14 years. Six children developed syncope during underwater swimming (3 while racing), two developed syncope after swimming, one child had loss of consciousness and slipped through a flotation device, and another had a near drowning that required prolonged resuscitation and caused severe neurocognitive deficits. Diagnosis of LQTS was made at the time of the …

Reviewing Author

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)

F. Bruder Stapleton, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardCareer Physician

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Pediatric Nephrology Foundation (Chair)