Reasonable Hypothesis [1] | 23 of 2022 |
Balance of Probabilities [2] | 24 of 2022 |
SOP Bulletin 229 [3]
Heart block is a disorder involving the electrical signals in the heart. The signals from the atria to the ventricles, which control how the heart beats, are delayed or interupted at one of several sites along an anatomical pathway. The severity of the condition varies with the particular site and type of block. Presentations can range from asymptomatic through to severe symptoms requiring emergency treatment.
The diagnosis is made from an electrocardiogram - either as a one off procedure or with ongoing (Holter) monitoring over a period of time. The diagnosis can be made by a GP.
The relevant medical specialist is a cardiologist.
* another SOP applies
# non-SOP condition
Some types of heart block are asymtpomatic (e.g. first degree atrioventricular block). Others may present with non-specific symptoms, (e.g. fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain, feeling faint). Third degree heart block can present as a cardiac arrest. Clinical onset will often date from the time of an electrocardiogram (ECG), particularly for asymptomatic presentations, but may be able to be backdated, based on non-specific symptoms, for those types that cause symptoms.
Worsening may present with progression to a more serious form of heart block with the development of symptoms in a previously asymptomatic person. Treatment can range from observation to the need for drug therapy, or the need for a pacemaker.
Links
[1] http://www.rma.gov.au/assets/SOP/2022/652a0b2d09/023.pdf
[2] http://www.rma.gov.au/assets/SOP/2022/83cc99085a/024.pdf
[3] https://clik.dva.gov.au/system/files/media/SOP%20Bulletin%20229.pdf