Skip to main content Skip to navigation within this section
aviation.govt.nz
Print

Brugada syndrome

Considerations

This condition is named after three cardiologists, the Brugada brothers, who have described this syndrome. The syndrome is characterised by the possibility of sudden death in people who present with a particular ECG pattern.

The Brugada brothers have published a long term follow up study (Circulation 2002;105:73- 78). They studied three groups of patients with Brugada pattern ECGs, some of whom have had cardiac arrests, some of whom had presented with syncope and some who were asymptomatic. Of the symptomatic group more than 70% had a family history of sudden cardiac death. The paper states that they would not diagnose Brugada syndrome in an individual with a 'saddle-like' ECG without inducing a coved type ECG on pharmacological testing. The ECG pattern may vary from time to time, making the diagnosis difficult. It is also difficult to predict its aeromedical significance.

Information to be provided

An applicant presenting with a history of Brugada syndrome or showing a Brugada pattern of their ECG should provide:

  • Copy of all previous ECG tracings unless already submitted to CAA;
  • Copy of any cardiologist report or cardiac investigation that may have been carried out unless already submitted to CAA;
  • ECG at each application unless stated otherwise by CAA;
  • For a first application, a copy of the GP notes for the past five years;
  • Detailed of any family member fainting episode or sudden cardiac event.

Disposition

  • An applicant with an ECG pattern suggestive of, or a diagnosis of Brugada syndrome should be considered as having a condition that is of aeromedical significance.

The possible outcomes following an AMC are:

Diagnostic features Certification disposal
Definite Brugada pattern, and syncope or family history of sudden death Ineligible
Definite Brugada pattern; but no syncope, and no family history of sudden death, and asymptomatic. Class 1: No Single Pilot Air Operations carrying passengers
Brugada pattern not definite Class 1 & 2: Unrestricted

However, every conclusion is made on a case by case consideration and may differ from this advice. An electrophysiology study may be required.

Print