What does a hyperacute T wave mean?

After QT prolongation, hyperacute T waves are the earliest-described electrocardiographic sign of acute ischemia, preceding ST-segment elevation.1 Hyperacute T waves are broad-based and symmetrical, usually with increased amplitude and often associated with a depressed ST take off.1 Hyperacute T waves are most evident …

What does the T wave indicate on an ECG?

Introduction. The T wave on the ECG (T-ECG) represents repolarization of the ventricular myocardium. Its morphology and duration are commonly used to diagnose pathology and assess risk of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.

Can hyperacute T waves be normal?

Hyperacute T waves (HATW) Particular attention should be paid to their size in relation to the preceding QRS complex, as HATW may appear ‘normal’ in size if the preceding QRS complex is of a small amplitude. They are also seen with Prinzmetal angina.

How is hyperacute T wave diagnosed?

The electrocardiographic differential diagnosis of the hyperacute T wave includes both transmural acute myocardial infarction and hyperkalemia as well as early repolarization, left ventricular hypertrophy, and acute myopericarditis.

What causes hyperacute T wave?

What are hyperacute T waves? When a coronary artery becomes occluded, the ECG begins to change over time in a predictable way. The earliest changes are in T-wave shape and size. Within 30 minutes of artery occlusion the T-wave height and width increases.

What do abnormal T waves indicate?

The electrocardiographic T wave represents ventricular repolarization. Abnormalities of the T wave are associated with a broad differential diagnosis and can be associated with life-threatening disease or provide clues to an otherwise obscure illness.

What do tall T waves indicate?

Tall T waves suggest hyperkalemia, but there are other causes as well, including hyperacute ischemic changes or a normal variant (see Figure 2). In hyperkalemia, the T waves are tall, symmetric, narrow, pointed, and tented as if pinched from above.

What do abnormal T-waves indicate?

What do tall T-waves indicate?

What is an abnormal T wave?