Life-Threatening Arrhythmia in Ebstein’s Anomaly: A Rare Cardiovascular Presentation of Williams Syndrome – A Case Study - Report - MDSpire

Life-Threatening Arrhythmia in Ebstein’s Anomaly: A Rare Cardiovascular Presentation of Williams Syndrome – A Case Study

  • By

  • M. E. Schouw

  • T. T. Koopmann

  • N. A. Blom

  • J. L. Stöger

  • D. Q. C. M. Barge-Schaapveld

  • R. Bökenkamp

  • March 2, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Life-Threatening Arrhythmia in Ebstein’s Anomaly

Overview

Revise to clarify the significance of the case in the context of existing literature.

Background

Williams syndrome is a multisystem disorder with significant cardiovascular implications, affecting approximately 1 in 7,500 individuals. Cardiovascular abnormalities are prevalent in these patients, with a high incidence of congenital heart defects. Ebstein's anomaly, a rare congenital heart defect, has been infrequently associated with Williams syndrome, making this case particularly noteworthy.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available.

Key Findings

  • The patient exhibited severe Ebstein's anomaly without initial signs of cardiac decompensation.
  • Cardiac arrest occurred due to polymorphic ventricular arrhythmias originating from the Purkinje system.
  • Electrophysiological studies revealed PVCs from fibrosed areas corresponding to the dyskinetic ventricular septum.
  • Cardiac MRI indicated global hypokinesia and subepicardial myocardial fibrosis.
  • This case represents the third documented instance of concurrent Williams syndrome and Ebstein's anomaly.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare professionals should maintain a high index of suspicion for arrhythmias in patients with Williams syndrome, particularly those with concurrent congenital heart defects like Ebstein's anomaly. Regular cardiovascular monitoring and early intervention strategies are crucial to manage potential life-threatening events.

Conclusion

This case underscores the importance of recognizing the rare but serious cardiovascular complications associated with Williams syndrome and Ebstein's anomaly, advocating for proactive management and surveillance.

References

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  7. Clinical Research in Cardiology — An Uncommon Link Between Long QT Syndrome and Syndactyly: Insights into Timothy Syndrome (LQT 8)
  8. Williams Syndrome - GeneReviews® - NCBI Bookshelf
  9. The American Association for Thoracic Surgery 2025 Expert Consensus Document: Management of Ebstein Anomaly in Children and Adults - PubMed
  10. Ebstein’s anomaly with life-threatening arrhythmia: an unusual cardiovascular manifestation of Williams syndrome – a case report - PMC

Original Source(s)

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