P-wave dispersion: What we know till now?

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Electrophysiology
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• P-wave dispersion quantifies the difference between maximum and minimum P-wave durations across multiple ECG leads.
• Increased P-wave duration and dispersion indicate prolonged intraatrial conduction and heterogeneous sinus impulse propagation.
• These electrophysiologic changes are characteristic of atrial arrhythmias, particularly paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the measurement methodologies of P-wave dispersion.
• To review the current clinical applications of P-wave dispersion assessment.
• To discuss the strengths and limitations of P-wave dispersion in various patient cohorts.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on P-wave dispersion measurement techniques.
• Analysis of clinical studies evaluating P-wave dispersion in diverse patient populations.
• Synthesis of data regarding the diagnostic and prognostic utility of P-wave dispersion.

Main Results:

• P-wave dispersion has been extensively evaluated in patients with and without heart disease, including hypertensives, CAD patients, and those with congenital heart conditions.
• Its application extends to risk assessment for atrial fibrillation in various clinical settings.
• The review highlights established measurement protocols and diverse clinical utility.

Conclusions:

• P-wave dispersion is a valuable electrophysiologic marker associated with atrial electrical heterogeneity.
• Its clinical utility spans risk stratification for atrial fibrillation across a spectrum of cardiac and non-cardiac diseases.
• Understanding its measurement, application, strengths, and limitations is crucial for effective clinical use.