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Ventricular arrhythmia-induced syncope as the initial presentation of Wilson disease in a 4-year-old child: a rare case report

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 November 2025

Shereen Elmallwany
Affiliation:
Pediatric Department, Elmenshawy Hospital, Ministry of health, Tanta, Egypt
Doaa El Amrousy*
Affiliation:
Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University , Tanta, Egypt
Gehan Ahmed
Affiliation:
Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
Noha Behairy
Affiliation:
Radiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
Rodina Mohamed
Affiliation:
Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
Osama Abdelaziz
Affiliation:
Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
Rania Mohamed El kaffas
Affiliation:
Pediatric Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
*
Corresponding author: Doaa El Amrousy; Email: doaamoha@yahoo.com

Abstract

Wilson’s disease is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of copper metabolism caused by mutations in the ATP7B gene. A 4-year-old boy, born of a consanguineous marriage, presented with recurrent daily syncopal attacks. Initial cardiac evaluation showed frequent polymorphic premature ventricular contractions and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia on Holter monitoring. Despite beta-blocker therapy, episodes persisted. Persistently elevated liver enzymes prompted hepatology referral. A liver biopsy suggested metabolic liver disease, and whole-exome sequencing confirmed Wilson disease with a homozygous ATP7B mutation.

Conclusion

This case illustrates a rare presentation of Wilson’s disease, as ventricular arrhythmia-induced syncope was the initial and only manifestation in a young child before the development of classic hepatic or neurological signs. It underscores the importance of considering metabolic and genetic aetiologies in paediatric arrhythmias, especially when accompanied by abnormal liver function. Moreover, early recognition and initiation of chelation therapy can prevent disease progression and enable timely screening and management of affected family members.

Information

Type
Case Report
Copyright
© The Author(s), 2025. Published by Cambridge University Press

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