The circulatory system in children with cutaneous forms of scleroderma. The results of routine as well as 24-hour ECG and physical performance test
Rokicki, W.; Rubisz-Brzezińska, J.; Dukalska, M.; Rzepecka, I.; Gasior, Z.; Gołba, E.; Nowak, Z.
Pediatria Polska 70(6): 479-485
1995
ISSN/ISBN: 0031-3939 PMID: 8692605 Document Number: 443679
Thirty-four children suffering from so-called cutaneous forms of scleroderma were studied (physical examination, routine and 24-hour ECG, and physical performance test). Physical development was significantly impaired in 5 cases. Congenital heart malformations with left-to-right shunt were detected in 3 children. These children underwent surgery with good results. Heart murmur was found during physical examination in 14 cases. In 30 subjects routine ECG was described as abnormal or doubtful. Abnormal Holter monitoring results were found in 13 children. The authors were not able to detect inferior physical performance test results in the studied children as compared to the control group (when the children suffering from congenital heart malformations and resting tachycardia were excluded from the study). It is suggested that children suffering from so-called cutaneous forms of scleroderma should remain under constant cardiological care.