T wave: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|Overview of the T wave in electrocardiography}} | |||
== Overview == | ==Overview== | ||
The T wave | 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== | ||
The T wave | 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=== | ||
[[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. | |||
== | ===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]] | ||
* [[U wave]] | * [[U wave]] | ||
* [[Myocardial ischemia]] | |||
* [[Hyperkalemia]] | |||
[[Category:Electrocardiography]] | [[Category:Electrocardiography]] | ||
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]

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:
- 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[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.