How is long QT syndrome characterized electrocardiographically?

How is long QT syndrome characterized electrocardiographically?

QTc and Sudden Cardiac Death Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is characterized by abnormal prolongation of the QT interval on the surface electrocardiogram associated with risk of polymorphic ventricular arrhythmia, torsades de pointes (TdP), and sudden cardiac death.

How is LQTS inherited?

LQTS is typically inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. An exception is LQTS associated with sensorineural deafness (known as Jervell and Lange-Nielsen syndrome), which is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. Most individuals diagnosed with LQTS have an affected parent.

What are the clinical characteristics of Long QT syndrome?

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is characterized by severely altered ventricular repolarization, resulting in prolongation of the QT interval on electrocardiogram (ECG). The condition predisposes patients to malignant ventricular arrhythmia (torsade de pointes) and sudden death.

Can a long QT syndrome cause cardiac arrest?

Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a rare disorder of the heart’s electrical system that can lead to dangerous heart rhythms, fainting, and sudden cardiac arrest.

Can a long QT interval be a genetic condition?

Although Long QT syndrome is often a genetic condition, a prolonged QT interval associated with an increased risk of abnormal heart rhythms can also occur in people without a genetic abnormality, commonly due to a side effect of medications.

What causes sudden death due to QT prolongation?

Acquired. Anorexia nervosa has been associated with sudden death, possibly due to QT prolongation. The malnutrition seen in this condition can sometimes affect the blood concentration of salts such as potassium, potentially leading to acquired long QT syndrome, in turn causing sudden cardiac death.

What is long QT syndrome and can it be treated?

ANSWER: Long QT syndrome is a heart-rhythm disorder that is diagnosed due to symptoms, an abnormal 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG), or as a result of a family history of the disease. Once it’s diagnosed, long QT syndrome often can be treated effectively. Your heart circulates blood throughout your body each time it beats.

What drugs to avoid if you have long QT syndrome?

Heart medications to avoid in patients with LQTS include the following: Quinidine (Quinidine, Quinidex, Duraquin, Quinaglute): For heart rhythm abnormalities. Procainamide (Pronestyl): For heart rhythm abnormalities. Disopyramide (Norpace): For heart rhythm abnormalities.

What is the diagnosis for long QT syndrome?

Long QT syndrome is diagnosed on the basis of electrocardiographic ( EKG ) findings, clinical findings such as congenital deafness or unexplained fainting, and family history of long QT syndrome or sudden cardiac death.

What are the symptoms of Long QT syndrome?

Long QT syndrome is an electric heart rhythm disorder that can cause fast, chaotic heartbeats. Severe symptoms are sudden fainting and seizures.