QTc Interval Prolongation and Life-Threatening Arrhythmias during Hospitalization in Patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): Results from a Multicenter Prospective Registry

Abstract

Background: Prolonged QTc intervals and life-Threatening arrhythmias (LTA) are potential drug-induced complications previously reported with antimalarials, antivirals, and antibiotics. Our objective was to evaluate the prevalence and predictors of QTc interval prolongation and incidences of LTA during hospitalization for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among patients with normal admission QTc. Methods: We enrolled 110 consecutive patients in a multicenter international registry. A 12-lead electrocardiograph was performed at admission, after 7, and at 14 days; QTc values were analyzed. Results: After 7 days, 15 (14%) patients developed a prolonged QTc (pQTc; mean QTc increase 66 ± 20 msec; +16%; P