Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Methods for ECG Evaluation of Indicators of Cardiac Risk, and Susceptibility to Aconitine-induced Arrhythmias in Rats Following Status Epilepticus
Published on: April 5, 2011
[Association between QT-interval and its dispersion with factors determining prognosis of cardiovascular morbidity
Insights
Prolonged corrected maximal QT intervals (QTcmax) and QT dispersion (QTcD) are linked to higher arterial hypertension, aortic strain, and left ventricular hypertrophy in older women. These findings indicate an increased cardiovascular risk.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Clinical Electrophysiology
- Hypertension Research
Background:
- Arterial hypertension is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
- QT interval prolongation and dispersion are markers of cardiac electrical instability.
- Identifying predictors of cardiovascular risk in aging populations is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between prolonged corrected maximal QT intervals (QTcmax) and QT dispersion (QTcD) and arterial hypertension.
- To assess other factors contributing to high cardiovascular risk in women aged 56-66.
- To explore the association with aortic elasticity and left ventricular hypertrophy.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 123 women aged 56-65 in Tallinn underwent standard examinations.
- Methods included blood pressure measurement, electrocardiography, echocardiography, and laboratory tests.
- Analysis focused on QTcmax, QTcD, pulse pressure, and left ventricular hypertrophy.
Main Results:
- Prolonged QTcmax and/or QTcD were associated with elevated pulse pressure, indicating aortic strain.
- These QT parameters correlated with left ventricular hypertrophy, particularly concentric changes.
- Participants with prolonged QTcmax/QTcD exhibited a higher 10-year risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Conclusions:
- QTcmax and QTcD prolongation are associated with indicators of arterial hypertension and adverse cardiac remodeling.
- These electrophysiological markers may identify women at increased cardiovascular risk.
- Further research can refine risk stratification using these parameters.
Aim:
To elucidate relation between prolongation of corrected maximal QT intervals and QT dispersion (QTcmax, QTcD) and presence and severity of arterial hypertension, as well as other factors determining high cardiovascular risk in female population of Tallinn aged 56 - 66 years.
Material And Methods:
A sample of female citizens of Tallinn (n=123, age 56 - 65 years) were subjected to standard examination including blood pressure measurement, electrocardiography, echocardiography, and laboratory tests.
Results:
Presence of prolonged QTcmax and/or QTcD were associated with elevation of pulse pressure, which reflected strain and elasticity of the aorta, as well as with presence of left ventricular hypertrophy, especially concentric variant of changes of left ventricular geometry. Participants with prolonged QTcmax and/or QTcD had higher total 10 year risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Related Concept Videos
Factors Influencing Heart Rate
Let us explore the significant factors affecting heart rate, including age, body temperature, posture, acute pain, chemical influences,...
ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias
Pharmacodynamic Models: Linear Concentration–Effect Model
Electrocardiogram
Three major waveforms are present in a typical ECG recording: the P wave, the QRS complex, and the T...
Correlation between ECG and Cardiac Cycle
A cardiac action potential originates in the SA node and spreads throughout the atria and the AV node in approximately 0.03 seconds. This results in the P wave in an ECG and triggers atrial contraction. The action potential is then briefly slowed at the AV node, allowing the atria to contract and fill the ventricles with blood before...
Dysrhythmias V: Evaluating Dysrhythmias
