Ankyrin-B syndrome: a case of sinus node dysfunction, atrial fibrillation and prolonged QT in a young adult

Heart Lung Circ. 2015 Feb;24(2):e31-4. doi: 10.1016/j.hlc.2014.09.013. Epub 2014 Sep 30.

Abstract

Ankyrin-B protein is involved in regulating expression and localisation of cardiac ion channels and transporters. Mutations of the ANK2 gene in the rare condition Ankyrin-B syndrome result in loss of function of the ankyrin-B protein which in turn leads to abnormal regulation of intracellular sodium and calcium and a predisposition to cardiac arrhythmia including torsades de pointes. We describe a rare case of this condition characterised by sinus node dysfunction, atrial fibrillation and prolonged QT syndrome in a young patient with a family history of sudden death. The management of Ankyrin-B syndrome may include avoidance of QT prolonging medications, insertion of a permanent pacemaker for sinus node dysfunction, or a cardioverter defibrillator for those at high-risk of sudden death from torsades de pointes.

Keywords: Ankyrin-B; Atrial fibrillation; QT prolongation; Sinus node dysfunction; Torsades de pointes.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Ankyrins / genetics*
  • Atrial Fibrillation* / complications
  • Atrial Fibrillation* / genetics
  • Genetic Diseases, Inborn* / complications
  • Genetic Diseases, Inborn* / genetics
  • Humans
  • Long QT Syndrome* / complications
  • Long QT Syndrome* / genetics
  • Male
  • Sick Sinus Syndrome* / complications
  • Sick Sinus Syndrome* / genetics
  • Torsades de Pointes / complications
  • Torsades de Pointes / genetics

Substances

  • ANK2 protein, human
  • Ankyrins