The QT interval in Parkinson′s disease: a systematic review

Background PD (PD) is associated with a twofold increase in the risk of death especially sudden death. A predisposing factor for cardiac sudden death is prolongation of the QT interval. This study evaluated the potential association between QT interval and PD. Methods A systematic search was conducted of Medline and EMBASE using the search terms “PD” AND “QT interval” OR “Cardiac Repolarization” to identify articles. Results Seven studies with persons with PD (n = 981) and control groups were identified. There was a significant difference in QT interval comparing patients with PD and persons without PD. The odds ratio showed a significant (P < 0.001) 2.6-fold (random effect) greater QTc prolongation in PD compared to control. Overall, there was a significantly longer QT in patients with PD than controls of 10.7 ± 2.8 ms. Data analysis did not show much publication bias. Focusing only on studies that related the QT interval to the severity of PD as assessed by Hoehn–Yahr classification (n = 6), there was a significant (P = 0.004) overall correlation between QT interval and the severity of PD. There was little publication bias. The data directly examining patients with PD taking any drug than might prolong QT do not support an association between these mediations and QT prolongation. Conclusion Individuals with PD have a longer QT interval than individuals without PD. The QT interval is associated with a greater severity of PD and a greater probability of developing more severe PD. The QT interval should be considered in assessment of PD and possibly as a target for the treatment of PD.