Congenital heart block associated with Sjögren syndrome: case report

BACKGROUND Congenital heart block is a rare complication of pregnancy associated with Sjögren Syndrome that may result in the death of the foetus or infant, or the need for pacing in the newborn or at a later stage. CASE REPORT The case is presented of a 64-year-old patient with primary Sjögren Syndrome and a history of having given birth to two sons with congenital heart block, both of whom required pacing several years later. CONCLUSION The literature relating to this association is discussed including the suggested mechanism, long-term outcome of mothers of children with congenital heart block and preventive treatment strategies.