Dynamic QT Interval Changes from Supine to Standing in Healthy Children

Background: QT-interval variations in response to exercise-induced increases in heart rate have been reported in children and adults in the diagnosis of long QT syndrome (LQTS). A quick standing challenge has been proposed as an alternative provocative test in adults, with no pediatric data yet available. Methods: A standing test was performed in 100 healthy children (mean age, 9.7 +/- 3.1 years) after 10 minutes in a supine position with continuous electrocardiographic recording. QT intervals were measured at baseline, at maximal heart rate, at maximal QT, and at each minute of a 5-minute recovery while standing. Measurements were taken in leads II/V-5 and were corrected for heart rate (QTc). Results: On standing, the heart rate increased by 29 +/- 10 beats per minute (bpm). The QT interval was similar at baseline and on standing (394 +/- 34 ms vs 394 +/- 34 ms; P = 1.0). However, QTc increased from 426 +/- 21 to 509 +/- 41 ms (P < 0.001). The 95th percentile for QTc at baseline and maximal heart rate was 457 ms and 563 ms, respectively. At 1 minute of recovery, the QT interval was shorter (375 +/- 31 ms) compared with baseline (394 +/- 34 ms; P < 0.001) and standing (394 +/- 34 ms; P < 0.001). QTc reached baseline values after 1 minute of recovery and remained stable thereafter (423 +/- 23 ms at 1 minute; 426 + 22 ms at 5 minutes; P = 1.0). Conclusions: This first characterization of QTc changes on standing in children shows substantial alterations, which are greater than those seen in adults. Two-thirds of the children would have been misclassified as having LQTS by adult criteria, indicating the need to create child-specific standards.