The early repolarization pattern in the general population: clinical correlates and heritability.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to describe the clinical correlates and heritability of the early repolarization pattern (ERP) in 2 large, population-based cohorts.

BACKGROUND

There is growing recognition that ERP is associated with adverse outcomes.

METHODS

Participants of the Framingham Heart Study (FHS) (N = 3,995) and the Health 2000 Survey (H2K) (N = 5,489) were included. ERP was defined as a J-point elevation ≥0.1 mV in ≥2 leads in either the inferior (II, III, aVF) or lateral (I, aVL, V(4-6)) territory or both. We tested the association between clinical characteristics and ERP, and estimated sibling recurrence risk.

RESULTS

ERP was present in 243 of 3,955 (6.1%) of FHS and 180 of 5,489 (3.3%) of H2K subjects. Male sex, younger age, lower systolic blood pressure, higher Sokolow-Lyon index, and lower Cornell voltage were independently associated with the presence of ERP. In the FHS sample, siblings of individuals with ERP had an ERP prevalence of 11.6% (recurrence risk ratio of 1.89). Siblings of individuals with ERP had an increased unadjusted odds of ERP (odds ratio: 2.22, 95% confidence interval: 1.01 to 4.85, p = 0.047).

CONCLUSIONS

ERP has strong association with clinical factors and has evidence for a heritable basis in the general population. Further assessment of the genetic determinants of ERP is warranted.