Long QT syndrome

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Long QT syndrome
Long QT syndrome type 1.jpg
Synonyms LQTS
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Syncope, seizures, sudden cardiac death
Complications Torsades de pointes, ventricular fibrillation
Onset Congenital or acquired
Duration Lifelong
Types N/A
Causes Genetic mutations, certain medications, electrolyte imbalances
Risks Family history, certain medications, electrolyte disturbances
Diagnosis Electrocardiogram, genetic testing
Differential diagnosis Ventricular tachycardia, Brugada syndrome, catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia
Prevention Avoiding QT-prolonging drugs, managing electrolyte levels
Treatment Beta blockers, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, left cardiac sympathetic denervation
Medication N/A
Prognosis Variable, risk of sudden death
Frequency 1 in 2,000 people
Deaths N/A


Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a genetic disorder that affects the heart's electrical activity. It is characterized by a prolonged QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which can lead to arrhythmias, syncope, and sudden cardiac arrest.

Pathophysiology

Long QT syndrome is caused by mutations in genes that encode for ion channels in the heart. These ion channels are responsible for the flow of potassium, sodium, and calcium ions, which are crucial for the heart's electrical activity. The most commonly affected genes include KCNQ1, KCNH2, and SCN5A. Mutations in these genes can disrupt the normal flow of ions, leading to a prolonged QT interval.

Types

There are several types of Long QT syndrome, classified based on the specific gene mutation:

  • LQT1: Caused by mutations in the KCNQ1 gene.
  • LQT2: Caused by mutations in the KCNH2 gene.
  • LQT3: Caused by mutations in the SCN5A gene.

Symptoms

Individuals with Long QT syndrome may experience:

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Long QT syndrome typically involves:

Treatment

Treatment options for Long QT syndrome include:

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment and lifestyle modifications, individuals with Long QT syndrome can lead relatively normal lives. However, the risk of sudden cardiac arrest remains, particularly in untreated individuals.

See also



Cardiovascular disease A-Z

Most common cardiac diseases

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD