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Signal-averaged electrocardiography in myotonic dystrophy
P V Fragola1, L Calò, G Antonini
1Department of Internal Medicine, School of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy.
International Journal of Cardiology
|June 2, 1995
Summary
Ventricular late potentials are more common in myotonic dystrophy patients than healthy individuals. These late potentials are linked to a higher risk of complex ventricular arrhythmias in myotonic dystrophy.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Genetics
Background:
- Myotonic dystrophy is a multisystem disorder with cardiac involvement.
- Ventricular arrhythmias are a concern in myotonic dystrophy patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of ventricular late potentials in myotonic dystrophy.
- To assess the clinical significance of these late potentials.
Main Methods:
- Signal-averaged electrocardiography (SAECG) and 24-h ambulatory ECG monitoring were used.
- 53 myotonic dystrophy patients and 47 healthy controls were studied.
- Late potentials were identified using specific QRS duration and amplitude criteria.
Main Results:
- Late potentials were found in 34% of myotonic dystrophy patients versus 8.5% of controls (P < 0.01).
- Complex ventricular arrhythmias were more frequent in patients with late potentials (33% vs. 6%, P < 0.01).
Conclusions:
- Ventricular late potentials are more prevalent in myotonic dystrophy.
- The presence of late potentials indicates an increased risk for ventricular arrhythmias in this population.