Epicardial Fat Thickness as a Predictor of Ventricular Extrasystoles

Abstract

Aim. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is a layer between the myocardium and the epicardium, similar to the intra-abdominal adipose tissue. Many cardiovascular diseases have been associated with increased EAT. Limited proof exists that EAT contributes to ventricular extrasystoles (VES). In this study, we aimed to examine the role of EAT on VES.Material and methods. 266 subjects were included in this prospective study between April 2022 and March 2023. They underwent a 12‑lead electrocardiogram, 24‑hour Holter monitoring, and echocardiography. The subjects were divided into two groups: the VES Group (n=134) (>60 VES / hr) and the non-VES Group (n=132) (<10 VES / hr) group. In addition, severe VES were defined as ≥10.000 VES / 24‑hr. EAT and other variables were compared between the non-VES and VES groups. Logistic regression analysis was performed to find the factors affecting VES, and an ROC analysis was used to determine the cut-off values of the variables.Results. EAT was higher in the VES group (p<0.001). In pairwise comparisons, higher EAT in the VES group was independent of ventricular frequency (p=0.552). Variables affecting the presence of VES were left ventricular mass index (p=0.031), QT dispersion (p=0.010), and EAT (p<0.001). The EAT predicted the presence of VES at a cut-off value of 4.05 with a sensitivity of 54.5 % and a specificity of 81.3 %.Conclusion. This research indicated that increased EAT might be an independent predictor of VES.