Third-Degree Atrioventricular Block (Complete Heart Block) Differential Diagnoses

Updated: Jul 29, 2022
  • Author: Akanksha Agrawal, MD; Chief Editor: Jeffrey N Rottman, MD  more...
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DDx

Diagnostic Considerations

Ischemia should always be in the differential diagnosis for a patient with new-onset high-degree atrioventricular (AV) block. Take simple measures to rule out ischemia, such as 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG) and measurement of cardiac enzyme levels. If warranted, a more in-depth evaluation, including perfusion imaging, may be needed.

Iatrogenic heart block due to medications is not uncommon and should always be considered. Other problems to be considered include the following:

  • Bradycardia with a ventricular escape

  • Bradycardia with a junctional escape

  • Accelerated junctional escape rhythm

Differential Diagnoses