QTc interval, and autonomic and somatic nerve function in diabetic neuropathy

Abstract

QTc intervals were measured using an electrocardiogram and other autonomic function tests, in 66 neuropathy patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (59.0 +/- 12.5 years; mean +/- SD). The change in R-R interval did not influence the QTc interval, as calculated by the equation: QTc = QT + (1000 - R-R)/7 (ms), compared with the conventional Bazett's equation which appeared to overcompensate in the case of a small R-R interval. The QTc interval in the diabetic patients was significantly longer than that in age-matched controls. The QTc interval showed an inverse correlation with the coefficient of variation of the R-R interval and skin blood flow at rest. However, no correlation was found between QTc interval and blood pressure change, change in heart rate on standing, or results of the sympathetic skin response. The QTc interval did not correlate significantly with motor or sensory nerve conduction parameters. We conclude that the QTc interval can be a simple and useful autonomic indicator for diabetic neuropathy relatively independent of other abnormalities of autonomic and somatic nervous system function.