Frequency of QT Interval Prolongation in Chronic Liver Disease Patients

Introduction: The frequency of QT interval prolongation as published in the international and local literature has been variable. Aims & Objectives: To determine the frequency of QT interval prolongation in patients with chronic liver disease and resolve the variability in the literature. Place and duration of study: The present study was conducted in Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit Shaikh Zayed Hospital Lahore from 1st March 2017 to 31st August 2017. Material & Methods: About 240 patients with diagnosed chronic liver disease were selected. Electrocardiography (12 lead) was performed in all patients to look for QT interval prolongation and their mean was calculated for purpose of analysis. Results: Mean age of our patients was 53.7±11.9 and male gender was dominant (55.8%). It was noted that QT interval was prolonged in 62 patients (25.8%) while rest of the 178 patients had normal QT interval. Conclusion: QT interval prolongation is frequently observed (25.8%) in chronic liver disease patients. Therefore, every patient with chronic liver disease should be investigated for QT interval prolongation.