[ECG changes in patients with chronic non-cancer pain: a prospective observational study].
BACKGROUND
Patients with chronic non-cancer pain not only show reduced quality of life, but also chronic morbidity and increased mortality. However, little is known about prevalence and type of abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings in these individuals.


METHODS
A total of 100 consecutive patients (≥ 18 years) with chronic (≥ 3 months) non-cancer pain were examined prospectively using ECG recordings and a questionnaire [German Pain Society (DGSS); further questions]. Data were collected at the first and next two follow-up outpatients' clinic appointments.


RESULTS
Participation rate was 98%. Of all patients, 26% had an abnormal ECG, while 5% of these patients had an abnormal ECG first at the follow-up when consuming a different analgesic regimen. Findings were QTc prolongation (16%), ventricular block (7%), artrioventricular block (6%), and atrial fibrillation (4%).


CONCLUSIONS
The prevalence of abnormal ECG recordings should be considered in the pain management of these patients. General ECG screening in this population should be discussed. Future studies should examine a larger population to identify potential risk factors (e.g., medication).
Schmerzambulanz, Klinik für Anästhesiologie, Universitätsklinikum der RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstr. 30, 52074, Aachen, Deutschland. vpeuckmann@ukaachen.de
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Peuckmann-Post
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Eickhoff
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von der Laage
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000700:Analgesics / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001145:Arrhythmias, Cardiac / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology; D059350:Chronic Pain / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology; D004562:Electrocardiography / Q000187:drug effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology; D012307:Risk Factors; D012815:Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D055815:Young Adult
D000700:Analgesics; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid