The Medical Management and Dental Implications of Long QT Syndrome

From Volume 32, Issue 8, October 2005 | Pages 472-474

Authors

M F Ahmed

BDS, PhD, FFD RCSI

Specialist Registrar in Restorative Dentistry, Liverpool University Dental Hospital. Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5PS, UK

Articles by M F Ahmed

A I Elseed

BDS, MPhil, MFD RCSI

Clinical Attachment, Liverpool University Dental Hospital. Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5PS, UK

Articles by A I Elseed

Abstract

Long QT is a disorder of the heart's conduction system. It can be congenital or acquired. The acquired type is caused mainly by medications. The diagnosis of LQT depends on the clinical features, the family history, and the ECG findings. The clinical presentations range from dizziness to syncope and sudden death. The dentist should consult the cardiologist to avoid any complications that may put the LQTS patient at risk. Medications such as erythromycin and antifungals are contra-indicated and should not be prescribed. Local anaesthetics containing adrenaline and bupivacaine should be avoided. Stress can precipitate symptoms and lead to sudden death.

Article

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