[The QT syndrome in newborn infants]

The QT-syndrome-the hereditary prolongation of the QT-interval with or without concomitant deafness--may cause ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation and is therefore a life-threatening disease. The prognosis, however, can be considerably improved by a therapy with beta-blockers. For this reason, neonates of affected families should undergo cardiologic examination. It is essential to establish the diagnosis as early as possible and to start a prophylactic therapy immediately.