Prevalence, clinical characteristics and echocardiographic parameters of arrhythmias among patients with rheumatic heart disease attending Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute: a prospective cohort study

Abstract

Abstract Background Arrhythmia is a known complication of rheumatic heart disease (RHD). It is critical to recognize arrhythmias early on so that prompt preventative actions and vigilant monitoring may be considered while treating these patients. Aim This study aimed at determining the prevalence, clinical characteristics and echocardiographic parameters of arrhythmias among RHD patients attending Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI). Methodology Hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 390 patients with an echocardiographic diagnosis of RHD aged 18years and above attending JKCI. Demographic and clinical information was documented. Echocardiography, a resting electrocardiography and 24 h ambulatory Holter monitoring electrocardiography were done. Chi square test was used to determine association between variables and those with a p value ≤ 0.2 were entered in a multivariate logistic regression analysis to determine the independent factors associated with arrhythmias. P value of 48 mm. Conclusion We found a high prevalence of arrhythmias among patients with RHD. The independent predictors of arrhythmias were left atrium dilatation and NYHA functional class III-IV. We recommend close monitoring for arrhythmias among RHD patients in sinus rhythm with higher NYHA functional class and dilated left atrium.

Keywords

• Rheumatic heart disease
• Electrocardiography
• Left atrium
• Heart failure
• Mitral stenosis
• Arrhythmias