Prevalence of P wave dispersion and interatrial block in patients with systolic heart failure and their relationship with functional status, hospitalization and one year mortality

Background and objectives: P-wave dispersion (PWD) and Interatrial block (IAB) are common in heart failure (HF), and could be associated with adverse cardiac events. We aimed to assess the prevalence of PWD and IAB and their relationship with functional status, hospitalization and mortality rate in patients with systolic HF. Methods: We enrolled 110 HF patients in sinus rhythm & LVEF 40 ms. IAB was defined as maximum P duration >110 ms. Measurements were done by 2 blinded investigators using a caliber, a ruler and a magnifying lens. Results: Mean age was 58.9 ± 9.7 years and 67.3% were males. Prevalence of PWD and IAB was 68.2% and 57.3%, respectively. Patients with PWD showed these features: 84% in NYHA class III or IV HF, 77.4% had LVEF 200 m (m) in 6MWT. Patients with PWD had more hospitalizations (72% vs 28.6%, P value <0.02) and higher 1-year mortality rate (20% vs 8.6%, P value