QT interval variations and mortality risk: is there any relationship?

Abnormal prolongation and shortening of the electrocardiographic QT interval duration, which occur in the hereditary forms of long and short QT syndromes, are associated with an increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Even within the normal range, these altered durations are associated with an increased mortality risk in the general population. While extreme prolongation or reduction of the QT interval predisposes patients to malignant ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death, the precise dose-response relationship between the QT interval and cardiovascular disease mortality is still unknown.

Early repolarization syndrome: electrocardiographic signs and clinical implications.

Early repolarization syndrome (ERS) was previously considered as a benign variant, but it has recently emerged as a risk marker for idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (VF) and sudden death. As measured by electrocardiogram (ECG), early repolarization is characterized by an elevation of the J point and/or ST segment from the baseline by at least 0.1 mV in at least two adjoining leads.

Teleconsultations as a step towards hospital interoperability.

The paper presents an interregional telemedicine project between hospitals from two countries that encourage good economic cooperation. It uses modern technology and diverse human resources that contribute to a better accomplishment of the goals of the project and insures continuity of the services after the ending of the project. It instantiates the vision of e-Europe regarding access to healthcare services and the increasing mobility of patients.