Effect of age and gender on the QTc-interval in healthy individuals and patients with Long-QT syndrome

Age- and gender related differences in QTc-interval are most likely the result of changes in sex-specific hormones. Although the exact mechanisms and pathophysiology of sex hormones on the QTc-interval are not known, testosterone appears to shorten the QTc-interval. In females, however, there is a more complex interaction between progesterone and estrogen. In patients with an impaired repolarization, such as Long-QT syndrome (LQTS), the effect of these sex hormones on the QTc-interval is more pronounced with a differing sensitivity between the LQTS genotypes.
Source: Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine - Category: Cardiology Authors: Source Type: research