ST elevation

ST Elevation is a term used in the field of medicine, specifically in cardiology, to describe a particular pattern seen on an Electrocardiogram (ECG) that indicates myocardial ischemia or infarction. This pattern is characterized by a 'ST segment' that is higher than the baseline.

Overview

The ST segment is the flat section of the ECG between the end of the S wave and the beginning of the T wave. It represents the interval between ventricular depolarization and repolarization. The most common cause of ST elevation is an acute myocardial infarction, also known as a heart attack. However, it can also be caused by other conditions such as pericarditis, Brugada syndrome, and certain medications.

Causes

Myocardial Infarction

Myocardial infarction (MI) is the most common cause of ST elevation. In an MI, the coronary arteries are blocked, preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching the heart muscle. This causes the muscle to become damaged or die, leading to characteristic changes on the ECG, including ST elevation.

Pericarditis

Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium, the sac-like covering around the heart. This condition can cause ST elevation on an ECG. Unlike in an MI, the ST elevation in pericarditis is usually diffuse, meaning it is seen in multiple leads on the ECG.

Brugada Syndrome

Brugada syndrome is a genetic disorder that can cause sudden cardiac death. It is characterized by abnormal ECG findings, including ST elevation in the right precordial leads.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of conditions causing ST elevation is primarily based on the ECG findings. However, other diagnostic tests such as blood tests, echocardiogram, and coronary angiography may also be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the condition.

Treatment

The treatment of ST elevation depends on the underlying cause. In the case of a myocardial infarction, immediate treatment is necessary to restore blood flow to the heart muscle. This can be achieved through medications or procedures such as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass graft (CABG).

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ST_elevation

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  ST elevation illustration
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  Pathologic ST elevation (CardioNetworks ECGpedia)
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  12 Lead EKG ST Elevation tracing color coded