Editorial: Paediatric arrhythmology: a challenge of the 21st century = Arritmología pediátrica, el reto del siglo XXI

Abstract

Arrythmias are disorders of the heart rhythm that are infrequent in the paediatric age group, and may present as tachycardia or bradycardia. In the current issue of Anales de Pediatría, Roguera et al. describe 2 cases of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in children and reviewed the literature on this condition. Atrial fibrillation is the most frequent arrythmia in the total population and is most prevalent in the geriatric age group. It is very rare in children, especially those with a structurally normal heart. When it occurs in very young children, it usually has a genetic aetiology, and therefore comprehensive genetic testing of the family is highly advisable in these cases. In older children, the cause is usually excess weight, and in young adults the intense level of physical activity associated with competitive sports. Early detection is key to prevent the complications of atrial fibrillation