Relationship between P-wave dispersion, left ventricular mass index and function in Nigerian hypertensive patients

Francisca O Inofomoh1, Oluranti B Familoni1, Casmir E Amadi2

  • 1Cardiology Unit, Department of Medicine, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu, Nigeria.

Insights

Hypertension is linked to prolonged P-wave dispersion (PWD), indicating irregular atrial electrical activity. This study found a higher prevalence of PWD in Nigerian hypertensive patients, suggesting potential risks for cardiovascular events.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Electrophysiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Hypertension is a leading global cardiovascular disorder.
  • Prolonged P-wave dispersion (PWD) is associated with atrial fibrillation, especially in hypertensive patients.
  • Understanding PWD prevalence in diverse populations is crucial for cardiovascular risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of PWD in Nigerian hypertensive patients.
  • To investigate the relationship between PWD and left ventricular mass index and function in this population.
  • To explore correlations between PWD and clinical parameters like waist circumference.

Main Methods:

  • A study involving 150 hypertensive patients and control subjects.
  • Measurement of P-wave dispersion (PWD) using electrocardiography (ECG).
  • Assessment of left ventricular mass index and left ventricular function (ejection fraction and diastolic function).

Main Results:

  • Mean PWD was significantly higher in hypertensive patients (38.29 ± 8.02 ms) compared to controls (32.14 ± 4.72 ms).
  • 70% of hypertensive patients exhibited prolonged PWD (> 33.46 ms), compared to 32.7% of controls.
  • Prolonged PWD showed a negative correlation with ejection fraction (r = -0.17, p = 0.03) but not with diastolic function. Waist circumference was the only significant difference between hypertensive patients with normal and prolonged PWD.

Conclusions:

  • Prolonged PWD is prevalent in Nigerian hypertensive patients.
  • PWD may serve as a marker for altered atrial conduction in hypertension.
  • Further research is warranted to explore the clinical implications of PWD in hypertensive populations, particularly regarding cardiac function and atrial fibrillation risk.

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