Prevalence of Early Repolarization Patterns in Adults
M P Barakoti1, A Karki1, M K Chaulagain1
1Department of Cardiology, Kathmandu Medical College, Kathmandu, Nepal.
Kathmandu University Medical Journal (KUMJ)
|August 18, 2017
Summary
Early repolarization patterns on electrocardiograms are found in 2.82% of patients. This condition, once considered benign, is now linked to sudden cardiac death, with Type II being the most common pattern.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Early repolarization (ER) on electrocardiograms, characterized by J-point elevation, was historically viewed as benign.
- Emerging evidence suggests ER is a rare but significant cause of idiopathic ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac death.
- Understanding ER prevalence is crucial for risk assessment in cardiac events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of early repolarization patterns in patients undergoing electrocardiography at Kathmandu Medical College Teaching Hospital.
- To analyze the distribution of different early repolarization types within the studied population.
- To identify potential sex-based differences in ER prevalence.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 12-lead electrocardiograms from patients at Kathmandu Medical College Teaching Hospital.
- Systematic review of electrocardiograms to identify and classify early repolarization patterns (Types I, II, III, and IV/Brugada).
- Collection and analysis of patient demographic data, including sex.
Main Results:
- The overall prevalence of early repolarization patterns was 2.82%.
- Prevalence was higher in males (4.95%) compared to females (0.77%).
- Type II ER pattern (inferior or inferolateral leads) was the most common (1.25%), while Type IV (Brugada pattern) was not detected.
Conclusions:
- Early repolarization is present in a notable percentage of the studied population, with significant sex disparity.
- Type II early repolarization is the predominant pattern observed.
- Knowledge of ER prevalence and types aids physicians in counseling patients regarding arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death risks.
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