Changes in repolarization dynamicity and the assessment of the arrhythmic risk

Pacing Clin Electrophysiol. 1997 Oct;20(10 Pt 2):2614-24. doi: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.1997.tb06111.x.

Abstract

At the present time, the assessment of the arrhythmic risk from surface ECG recordings is built on time-domain and frequent-domain analysis of high resolution ECG acquisition together with interlead variability of QT interval duration (QT dispersion). The corresponding raw ECG tracings are obtained in resting conditions. However, the dynamic aspects of the ECG signal is a rapidly evolving matter of interest. In addition to the beat-to-beat oscillations of the ventricular repolarization amplitude (QT alternans), there is growing evidence that the patterns of QT interval shortening with increasing heart rate are linked to susceptibility to ventricular arrhythmias. In this report, we will mainly address the association between QT dynamicity and the risk of developing torsades de pointes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / adverse effects
  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac / diagnosis
  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac / physiopathology*
  • Body Surface Potential Mapping
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Electrocardiography*
  • Electrocardiography, Ambulatory
  • Exercise Test
  • Humans
  • Long QT Syndrome / physiopathology
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Torsades de Pointes / chemically induced
  • Torsades de Pointes / physiopathology

Substances

  • Anti-Arrhythmia Agents