Congenital heart block
ICD-10 Q24.6 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital heart block.
Congenital heart block is a rare cardiac condition characterized by a disruption in the electrical conduction system of the heart, leading to an abnormal heart rhythm. This condition can be classified into three degrees: first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree (complete) heart block. In congenital cases, the heart block is present at birth and may be associated with other congenital heart defects, such as atrioventricular septal defects or structural abnormalities of the heart. The etiology often involves maternal autoimmune conditions, particularly in cases where maternal antibodies (anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB) cross the placenta, affecting the fetal heart. Symptoms may vary from asymptomatic to severe bradycardia, which can lead to heart failure or other complications. Diagnosis is typically made through electrocardiography (ECG) and may require further imaging studies to assess associated structural defects. Management may include monitoring, pacemaker insertion, or treatment of underlying conditions. Understanding the interplay between congenital heart block and other congenital malformations of the circulatory system is crucial for effective treatment and coding.
Pediatric documentation should include detailed history of the child's cardiac symptoms, family history of congenital heart disease, and results from diagnostic tests such as ECG and echocardiography.
Common scenarios include a newborn presenting with bradycardia, a child with a known congenital heart defect undergoing routine monitoring, or a patient requiring pacemaker placement due to symptomatic heart block.
Special considerations include the need for ongoing monitoring and potential surgical interventions, as well as the impact of maternal health on the child's condition.
Genetic documentation should include family history of congenital heart defects, results from genetic testing, and any identified chromosomal abnormalities that may contribute to the condition.
Genetic counseling scenarios may involve families with a history of congenital heart disease or those with identified genetic syndromes associated with heart block.
Considerations include the potential for syndromic associations and the need for comprehensive genetic evaluation in affected families.
Used in cases of symptomatic congenital heart block requiring pacing.
Documentation must include indications for pacemaker placement and pre-operative evaluations.
Pediatric considerations include age-appropriate device selection and monitoring.
Congenital heart block is often caused by maternal autoimmune diseases, particularly those involving anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibodies. It can also occur in association with congenital heart defects and genetic syndromes.
