Long QT Syndrome

Heart

The QT interval reflects how the heart’s ventricles — or main pumping chambers — contract, recover, and prepare for the next beat. This condition prolongs this interval, which means the ventricles may fall out of rhythm with the rest of the heart.

  • Signs and symptoms

    Signs include sudden collapse, seizures, and sometimes death

    First signs of this disease are often in adulthood.

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  • Diagnosis

    Genetic testing and ECG monitoring can be used to diagnose this disease.

  • Treatment

    Fortunately, there are medications that can be given to affected dogs to help control the electrical pace of the heart.

  • What to do if your dog is at risk

    Actions

    • Talk to your vet about your dog’s Long QT syndrome result so you can plan regular monitoring and care.
    • Schedule routine cardiac screenings, such as ECGs or echocardiograms, to track heart rhythm and function over time.
    • Avoid overly strenuous exercise or excitement, as these can sometimes trigger fainting episodes.
    • With ongoing monitoring and a calm, consistent routine, many dogs with Long QT syndrome can live comfortably.

  • Genetic Information

    In the English Springer Spaniel, LQTS has been mapped to a mutation in the KCNQ1 gene.

    All affected dogs were heterozygous (had only one copy) of the mutation.

    Gene names:

    KCNQ1 ‐ chr

    Inheritance type:

    dominant

  • Breeds affected

    This health condition affects the following breeds

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