Open AccessEvolution of Early Repolarization Patterns after 5 Years in a Military Population at Low Cardiovascular Risk and Practical Implications in Military Medical Expertise
Author(s) -
Vinsonneau Ulric,
PangnarindHeinz Vanida,
Paleiron Nicolas,
Heinz Louis Marie,
Rohel Guenole,
Piquemal Marie,
Castellant Philippe,
Abalea Jerome,
Mansourati Jacques,
Paule Philippe
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
annals of noninvasive electrocardiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.494
H-Index - 48
eISSN - 1542-474X
pISSN - 1082-720X
DOI - 10.1111/anec.12231
Subject(s) - medicine , asymptomatic , population , benign early repolarization , sudden cardiac death , disease , pediatrics , demography , cardiology , physical therapy , myocardial infarction , st segment , environmental health , sociology
Background The French military population is a young and athletic population with a high prevalence of early repolarization patterns (ERP) compared to the general population. Screening of military officers at risk of sudden death (SD) is a priority in military medical expertise. The aim of our study was to evaluate the prevalence of ERP and its evolution over a period of 5 years in a specific asymptomatic population, free of heart disease and cardiovascular risk factors. Methods From March to December 2008, we prospectively collected the electrocardiograms (ECGs) of military officers enlisted into the submarine forces of France. For 5 years (until 2012), the military officers included in the study underwent a clinical examination twice per year. A new ECG was carried out 5 years after the initial one. Results A total of 250 male subjects were included (mean age 22.87 ± 0.5 years). The prevalence of ERP was 19.2%. The most common appearance was an elevation of a slurring type J point (31/48 or 64.5%) in inferolateral leads (18/48 or 37.8%). After 5 years, the prevalence of ERP was identical to that of the previous period (19.2%) with no change in appearance, distribution, and amplitude in 47 subjects (97.9%). Repolarization changed in two patients (one occurrence of ERP and one disappearance). During the 5 years of follow‐up, the subjects remained asymptomatic Conclusion ERP is common in our population of young, athletic, and asymptomatic military officers and changes little in 5 years.