LONG QT SYNDROME Meaning and
Definition
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Long QT syndrome is a cardiac disorder characterized by a prolonged QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which represents the time taken for the heart's ventricles to depolarize and repolarize. This condition affects the electrical activity in the heart, increasing the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias, such as torsade de pointes or ventricular fibrillation.
Individuals with Long QT syndrome may experience symptoms like fainting (syncope), seizures, palpitations, or sudden cardiac arrest. The condition can be either inherited or acquired through certain medications or medical conditions. Inherited forms are typically caused by genetic mutations affecting ion channels responsible for the heart's electrical activity, while acquired forms can be triggered by medications (such as antiarrhythmics or certain antibiotics), electrolyte imbalances, or other underlying heart conditions.
Diagnosis of Long QT syndrome involves analyzing the QT interval duration on an ECG, where a prolonged QT interval is defined based on gender, age, and heart rate. Genetic testing may also be conducted to identify specific mutations associated with inherited forms. Treatment primarily involves managing the underlying cause and reducing the risk of arrhythmias. This may involve avoiding known triggers, modifying medications, and implanting an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) as a precautionary measure to deliver an electric shock if a life-threatening arrhythmia occurs. In some cases, beta-blockers are prescribed to help regulate heart rate and prevent arrhythmias. Long QT syndrome is a serious condition that requires ongoing management and monitoring.
Common Misspellings for LONG QT SYNDROME
- kong qt syndrome
- pong qt syndrome
- oong qt syndrome
- ling qt syndrome
- lkng qt syndrome
- llng qt syndrome
- lpng qt syndrome
- l0ng qt syndrome
- l9ng qt syndrome
- lobg qt syndrome
- lomg qt syndrome
- lojg qt syndrome
- lohg qt syndrome
- lonf qt syndrome
- lonv qt syndrome
- lonb qt syndrome
- lonh qt syndrome
- lony qt syndrome
- lont qt syndrome
- long 1t syndrome
