QTc prolongation during the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak: clinical risk management through hospital training course, focus on elderly patients

Abstract

The recent outbreak exposed doctors to a new challenge: treating people without any scientific evidence. All molecules combined in treatment schedules were merged on the basis of weak and anecdotal data so, the recommendations are constantly changing. In this context it is either mandatory for clinicians focusing on the different treatment options and on probable side effects of each molecules. It is well acquired that among elderly within same age group and strain, the outcome will differ according to each patient’s frailty. Moreover, old and frail people are particularly exposed to a double risk: the first one is the age-related mortality and the second one the susceptibility (also age related too) to side effects. Aim of our paper is reporting our experience in reducing toxicity with a constant action of scientific update and subsequent modification in clinical management protocols. Main focus was on frail patients and cardiologic risk-related to hydroxychloroquine.

Keywords

• Hydroxychloroquine
• QTc prolongation
• COVID-19
• frail patients.