Definition:
Romano-Ward syndrome is a major variant of a heart condition known as long QT syndrome, a condition that causes the cardiac muscle to take abnormally longer to recharge between beats. Romano-Ward syndrome is characterized by a disruption of the heart's normal rhythm.
Symptoms and Signs:
Romano-Ward syndrome is the most common type of hereditary long QT syndrome, which occurs in approximately 1 in 5,000 individuals worldwide. However, it is believed that more people are afflicted but never show symptoms of the disease.
The hallmark sign of Romano-Ward syndrome is irregular heartbeats. If untreated, this can lead to seizures, fainting, or sudden death.
Causes:
Romano-Ward syndrome is a hereditary disease, passed on via autosomal dominant pattern. The condition can develop as a consequence of mutations in the following genes: KCNE1, ANK2, KCNH2, KCNE2, KCNQ1, and SCN5A.
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