EN
The aim of the presented electrophysiological and histological study was the investigation of unexplained syncopal spells in a dog of Boxer breed. The dog underwent non-invasive procedures, which turned out to be insufficient for a complete diagnosis. Invasive procedures showed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. In post-mortem examination, intensive extravascular fibrosis in the both atria, mostly in the endocardium, as well as a local loss of the cross-striation in cardiomyocytes, the presence of giant nuclei, and penetration of adipose tissue, especially in the left ventricle, were found. These changes might be the cause of arrhythmias. Paroxysmal atrial arrhythmias can be the mechanism of syncope in dogs. The electrophysiological properties of the myocardium predispose to both supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias in dogs. Invasive electrophysiological study is a valuable diagnostic tool in dogs with syncope.