QT Prolongation in Critically Ill Patients With SARS-CoV-2 Infection

Abstract

Background: Several reports linked the use of repurposed drugs such as hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), azithromycin, lopinavir/ritonavir, and favipiravir with QT interval prolongation in patients with SARS-CoV2 infection. Little is known about the risk factors for QT interval prolongation in this population. We sought to describe the prevalence and identify the main risk factors associated with clinically significant corrected QT (QTc) prolongation in this population. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of critically ill patients who were admitted to our intensive care unit (ICU), had at least one electrocardiogram performed during their ICU stay, and tested positive for SARs-CoV-2. Clinically significant QTc interval prolongation was defined as QTc >500 milliseconds (ms). Results: Out of the 111 critically ill patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, QTc was significantly prolonged in 47 cases (42.3%). Patients with a clinically significant QTc prolongation had significantly higher proportions of history of cardiac diseases/surgery (22 [46.8%] vs. 10 [15.6%], P