Prevalence of early repolarisation pattern in children

Abstract

Background: Prevalence of early repolarisation ECG pattern (ER) has been repetitively determined in adults, but has not been reported in large unselected children populations so far.

Methods: ECG from 1000 successive healthy children from birth to 17years old were prospectively recorded and analyzed. ER was defined by ≥0.1mV J point elevation in at least two contiguous inferior or lateral ECG leads. Correlations with age, gender, ethnic origin, physical activity, Sokolow index and heart rate were performed.

Results: Prevalence of ER pattern was 23,6% (95% CI 21-26.2%) and increased after 8years of age. ER was independently correlated to a non Caucasian origin and a higher Sokolow index, but not to gender or level of physical activity. ER was independently correlated to an older age in children with heart rate <100bpm, and to a slower heart rate in children ≥8yo.

Conclusion: ER is present in a quarter of children of various age and is related to ethnic origin, an older age, a slower heart rate and a higher Sokolow index.

Keywords: ECG; Early repolarisation; J wave; Pediatrics; Sokolow.