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'''T wave''' is a term used in [[Electrocardiography]] to describe the representation of the repolarization (or recovery) of the [[ventricles]] (the lower chambers of the heart) in an [[Electrocardiogram]] (ECG).
{{Short description|Overview of the T wave in electrocardiography}}


== Overview ==
==Overview==
The T wave contains more information than the [[QRS complex]]; in the normal ECG, the T-wave is always upright in leads I, II, V3-V6, and variable in leads III, aVL, aVF, V1 and V2.  
The '''T wave''' is a component of the [[electrocardiogram]] (ECG) that represents the [[repolarization]] of the [[ventricles]] in the [[heart]]. It follows the [[QRS complex]] and precedes the [[U wave]], if present. The T wave is an important indicator of the electrical activity and health of the heart.


== Physiology ==
==Characteristics==
The T wave represents the repolarization of the ventricles. The exact details of the repolarization process are still being studied, but it is generally accepted that the outer epicardial layers of the ventricular myocardium repolarize before the endocardial layers, and that the [[apex]] of the heart repolarizes before the base.
The T wave is typically upright in most leads of a standard 12-lead ECG, except in lead aVR where it is normally inverted. The shape, amplitude, and duration of the T wave can provide valuable information about the cardiac condition.


== Clinical significance ==
===Normal T Wave===
Abnormalities in the T wave can represent a number of conditions, most importantly [[ischemia]]. Other conditions can also cause T wave abnormalities, including [[hypokalemia]], [[hyperkalemia]], and [[hypomagnesemia]].  
[[File:Tnorm_(ECG).svg|thumb|right|Normal T wave in an ECG]]
A normal T wave is asymmetrical, with a gradual ascent and a more rapid descent. The amplitude of the T wave is usually less than 5 mm in the limb leads and less than 10 mm in the precordial leads.


== See also ==
===Abnormal T Waves===
Abnormalities in the T wave can indicate various cardiac conditions:
 
* '''Inverted T waves''': May suggest [[myocardial ischemia]], [[myocardial infarction]], or [[ventricular hypertrophy]].
* '''Peaked T waves''': Often associated with [[hyperkalemia]].
* '''Flattened T waves''': Can be a sign of [[hypokalemia]] or [[myocarditis]].
 
==Clinical Significance==
The analysis of the T wave is crucial in diagnosing and managing cardiac conditions. Changes in the T wave can indicate electrolyte imbalances, ischemic heart disease, and other cardiac pathologies.
 
==Related pages==
* [[Electrocardiography]]
* [[Electrocardiography]]
* [[QRS complex]]
* [[QRS complex]]
* [[ST segment]]
* [[U wave]]
* [[U wave]]
* [[Myocardial ischemia]]
* [[Hyperkalemia]]


== References ==
<references />
[[Category:Cardiology]]
[[Category:Medical terminology]]
[[Category:Electrocardiography]]
[[Category:Electrocardiography]]
{{stub}}

Latest revision as of 03:45, 13 February 2025

Overview of the T wave in electrocardiography


Overview[edit]

The T wave is a component of the electrocardiogram (ECG) that represents the repolarization of the ventricles in the heart. It follows the QRS complex and precedes the U wave, if present. The T wave is an important indicator of the electrical activity and health of the heart.

Characteristics[edit]

The T wave is typically upright in most leads of a standard 12-lead ECG, except in lead aVR where it is normally inverted. The shape, amplitude, and duration of the T wave can provide valuable information about the cardiac condition.

Normal T Wave[edit]

Normal T wave in an ECG

A normal T wave is asymmetrical, with a gradual ascent and a more rapid descent. The amplitude of the T wave is usually less than 5 mm in the limb leads and less than 10 mm in the precordial leads.

Abnormal T Waves[edit]

Abnormalities in the T wave can indicate various cardiac conditions:

Clinical Significance[edit]

The analysis of the T wave is crucial in diagnosing and managing cardiac conditions. Changes in the T wave can indicate electrolyte imbalances, ischemic heart disease, and other cardiac pathologies.

Related pages[edit]