QTc-Prolongation in Pediatric Patients Treated for Acute Leukemia:
Prevalence and Causes
Abstract
Background: Acquired QT-prolongation in children undergoing
treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is potentially fatal.
To date specific recommendations for ECG monitoring during ALL treatment
are lacking. Aim: We aimed to assess the prevalence of QT
prolongation and explore possible causes in ALL patients undergoing
therapy. Methods and Results: A retrospective review of the
records of all pediatric ALL patients treated between 2018-2021 at the
American University of Beirut was conducted. Patients lacking complete
ECG records, baseline ECGs, or those with structural or functional heart
disease were excluded from the study. QT interval was measured manually,
and the longest measurement was chosen. Bazett’s formula was used to
correct for heart rate. All medications, the patient was on at the time
of the ECG recording were documented. In addition, the level of
electrolytes measured within the preceding 24 hrs of the ECG were
analyzed. 28 out of 257 ECGs met prolonged QTcB criteria (≥450 ms or ≥60
ms increase from baseline). Using multivariate analysis, age,
cyclophosphamide, fluconazole, and voriconazole maintained their
significant association with QTcB prolongation. Hypomagnesemia and
hypocalcemia showed association with QTc prolongation by bivariate
analysis; however, this association could not be confirmed using
Multivariate analysis due to the small sample size. The association
between ondansetron and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) could
not be determined as all patients were receiving those two medications.
Importantly, life-threatening Ventricular arrhythmias, Torsade de
pointes, did not occur in any of our patients. Conclusion: Our
study provides insights into factors contributing to QTcB prolongation,
including specific medications, chemotherapeutic agents and possibly
hypomagnesemia and hypocalcemia. To better understand these
associations, larger prospective studies are necessary. In the interim,
it is essential to conduct frequent follow-ups with ECGs when using
these medications.