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QT-interval dispersion in malnourished children
A J Fuenmayor1, R E Mora, A C Fuenmayor
1Cardiovascular Research Center, University of The Andes, Mérida, Venezuela.
Clinical Cardiology
|May 23, 1998
Summary
QT-interval dispersion is increased in malnourished children, particularly in the precordial leads. This finding highlights potential cardiac risks associated with malnutrition in pediatric populations.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Nutritional Science
- Electrocardiography
Background:
- The electrocardiographic (ECG) QT interval and its variability are not well understood in malnourished children.
- Malnutrition can affect cardiac function, but its impact on QT interval parameters remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate QT interval and QT-interval dispersion in malnourished children.
- To determine if QT interval and its variability are increased in pediatric malnutrition.
Main Methods:
- Conventional ECGs were performed on 40 children (20 malnourished, 20 controls).
- Measurements included heart rate, heart rate variability, corrected QT interval, and QT-interval dispersion.
- Blood parameters (hemoglobin, hematocrit, protein, electrolytes) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Corrected QT interval and heart rate variability were similar between groups.
- Malnourished children exhibited greater corrected QT-interval dispersion, especially in precordial leads.
- Repolarization abnormalities (T and U waves) were observed in malnourished children, unrelated to blood parameters or malnutrition severity.
Conclusions:
- QT-interval dispersion is significantly increased in malnourished children.
- This increased dispersion is more pronounced in the precordial leads, suggesting localized repolarization issues.