Clinical characteristics of 52 patients with torsade de points associated with acquired QT prolongation

Abstract

Risk factors, ECG characteristics and treatment options of patients with Torsade de Points associated with acquired QT prolongation are summarized in this study. Using "torsade de points" and "QT prolongation" as the keywords to search the inpatients database from 1990 - 2010 of Fuwai hospital, 52 eligible patients were included in this analysis. Structural heart diseases were found in 67.3% and electrolyte disorders in 59.6% patients, 36.5% patients received diuretic therapy and 28.8% received antiarrhythmic drugs which might induce prolonged QT interval. The mean QTc was (571 ± 93) ms and (456 ± 50) ms before and after treatment. All patients received potassium and magnesium supplement. Isoproterenol was used in 32.7% patients. 13.5% patients received temporary pacing therapy. Torsade de points and acquired QT interval prolongation was often associated with electrolyte disorders and drugs causing QT prolongation. ECG and QTc should be intensively monitored for high risk patients. Early awareness of the warning signs might contribute to early recognition and proper treatment of patients with Torsade de Points associated with acquired QT prolongation.