QTc Intervals in Former Preterm/Extreme Low Birth Weight Infants: a Pooled Study Proposal

Pooling effort to collect previously reported data on QTc time in former preterm neonates, and compare these data to controls. At present and based on a recently conducted systematic search, there are conflicting data on the potential QT interval prolongation (all Bazett) in former extreme low birth weight (ELBW, \<1000 g) infants or preterms. Consequently, if investigators truly want to assess the presence or absence of either a difference or a prolongation of QTc intervals in this specific population, pooling of published data is likely the most effective approach (potential number of cases = 24 + 49 + 93 = 166; potential number of controls in the same studies = 24 + 53 + 87 = 164), preferably based on individual data. Although the sample is to a large extent pragmatic (as available), the investigators hereby aim to target the 5 ms QTc prolongation applied by the authorities (FDA, EMA) in paired healthy adult volunteer studies as 'golden' standard as primary outcome variable \[EMA guideline, FDA guidance\].