Analysis of electrocardiographic characteristics of patients with skeletal fluorosis in tea type of fluorosis areas in QingHai Province

Abstract

Background:
Skeletal fluorosis is a chronic metabolic bone disease caused by excessive fluoride intake, commonly found in tea-type fluorosis areas. While its effects on bones are well-documented, its impact on cardiac function remains underexplored.
Objective:
To analyze the electrocardiographic (ECG) characteristics of patients with skeletal fluorosis in tea-type fluorosis endemic areas of Qinghai Province.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted involving [number] patients diagnosed with skeletal fluorosis and [number] healthy controls from non-endemic areas. Standard 12-lead ECGs were performed, and parameters such as heart rate, PR interval, QRS duration, QT interval, ST-T changes, and arrhythmias were recorded and compared between groups.
Results:
Patients with skeletal fluorosis exhibited significantly higher rates of ECG abnormalities compared to controls (p < 0.05). Common findings included sinus tachycardia/bradycardia, prolonged QT interval, ST-segment depression, T-wave inversion, and occasional arrhythmias. The severity of ECG abnormalities correlated with the clinical stage of fluorosis.
Conclusion:
Skeletal fluorosis in tea-type endemic areas is associated with notable changes in cardiac electrical activity, as evidenced by ECG abnormalities. These findings suggest that fluoride toxicity may affect cardiac conduction and repolarization, highlighting the need for cardiovascular monitoring in affected populations.
Keywords:
skeletal fluorosis, electrocardiogram, tea-type fluorosis, cardiac conduction, Qinghai Province