Long QT Syndrome (LQTS)

What is Long QT Syndrome?

Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) is a heart rhythm disorder that affects the electrical activity of the heart, causing prolonged QT interval on the electrocardiogram (ECG). This can lead to arrhythmias, fainting, seizures or sudden cardiac arrest.

Symptoms:

• Fainting (syncope), seizures, palpitations.
• Sudden cardiac arrest (in severe cases).

Some patients are asymptomatic but remain at risk.

Why Choose Genetic Testing for LQTS?

Genetic testing for Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) is important for diagnosis, prevention and personalized treatment., as it is often an inherited disorder.

Benefits of Genetic Testing:

• Diagnosis & Confirmation – Detects mutations in genes such as KCNQ1, KCNH2, SCN5A, associated with LQTS.
• Prevention of Complications – Helps to take timely measures (e.g. avoiding drugs that prolong QT, use of beta-blockers).
• Family Detection – Allows testing of relatives to reduce the risk of a sudden cardiac event.
• Personalized Therapy – Adjusts treatment based on the patient’s genetic predisposition.

Genetic testing is especially useful for people with a family history of unexplained fainting or sudden cardiac death.

Who can benefit from LQTS genetic testing?

Genetic testing for LQTS has diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic implications. The test includes genes that are definitively associated with LQTS or other inherited arrhythmia disorders that may present with clinical features similar to LQTS.

Individuals with clinical symptoms of LQTS may benefit from diagnostic genetic testing to establish or confirm diagnosis, clarify risks, or inform management. Asymptomatic members of a family with a known LQTS pathogenic variant may also benefit by avoiding activities and medications that can trigger symptoms.