Long QT Syndrome

Higher Risk

Your child participated in a cardiac screening with Who We Play For. An ECG was performed and reviewed by a licensed Cardiologist with specific training on reading ECGs according to the International Criteria.

Initial findings of that ECG indicate that secondary testing is necessary.

What does it mean to have an abnormal ECG?

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High Risk ECG Flag

  • Having a high risk flag means the pediatric cardiologist reading the ECG sees an abnormality suggesting a condition that has a higher likelihood of leading to Sudden Cardiac Arrest.

    If you or your child have received a high risk flag, you should schedule an appointment with a pediatric cardiologist as soon as possible.

  • It is recommended by the WWPF Medical Advisory Team that anyone flagged high risk under the WWPF guidelines should be removed from all physical activity and be seen by a pediatric cardiologist as soon as possible.

  • If there was a high risk flag on an ECG, the person should see a pediatric cardiologist right away, but if they are experiencing any of the following symptoms it would be cause for immediate medical attention:

    • Fainting or seizures during or immediately following exercise.

    • Unexplained shortness of breath.

    • Dizziness.

    • Extreme fatigue.

    • Racing heart (feels like it is beating out of your chest).

    • Sudden and unexplained death of a family member under the age of 50.

    If you experience any of these symptoms get an appointment with a pediatric cardiologist right away.

What is Long QT Syndrome?

Initial findings from your child's cardiac screening shows an extended heart beat. The duration between the heart filling with blood and contraction to push the blood throughout the body is considered to be longer than is recommended for students.

Note that this differs from a slow heart beat or slow heart rate. The measured interval is shown on the ECG as the QTc measurement, which means it needs to be corrected for heart rate. Complications can occur in athletes with QT Abnormalities as their heart rate goes up. The heart might overlap beats and begin a very serious rhythm or even sudden cardiac death.

Consultation with an Electrophysiologist is recommended.

Diagnosis:

QRc: Should be greater than 470ms for boys and 480ms for girls. Less than 340ms in any athlete.

Family History: Review extended family history, up to 4 generations if possible.

Consult: Electrophysiologist or Pediatric Cardiologist

Secondary Test Might Include:

  • Stress Test

  • Prolonged ECG Monitoring

  • Genetic Testing

Your child should not participate in activities in any way until you seek the advice of a Specialist for a more detailed examination.

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