Introduction
The intricate development of the fetal conduction system is essential
for the establishment of a functional cardiovascular system. Disruptions
in the conduction pathways during fetal life can lead to serious
consequences, impacting both prenatal and postnatal well-being.
Disturbances of fetal cardiac rhythm are reported to occur in 1 to 3 %
of all the pregnancies and 10% of these can be
life-threatening.1 While most are benign, certain
types like supraventricular or ventricular tachycardia, atrial
fibrillation, and atrioventricular (AV) block may lead to severe
complications.2 Transient fetal arrhythmias are more
common, but persistent severe bradycardia and sustained tachycardia can
result in fetal hydrops, preterm delivery, and increased morbidity and
mortality.3 Hence, early diagnosis before progression
to hydrops, is both crucial and challenging and requires a specialized
team with expertise in fetal echocardiography. The etiology of fetal
conduction disturbances is diverse, encompassing ischemia, inflammation,
electrolyte imbalances, structural defects, and inherited genetic
conditions.4 Understanding the underlying causes and
effective management strategies for these abnormalities is vital for
improving prenatal care and neonatal outcomes. In this study, we present
a retrospective analysis of a cohort comprising 40 cases of fetal
arrhythmias diagnosed and managed in our institute with an aim to
contribute valuable insights into the diverse challenges encountered.