U wave

From WikiMD's medical encyclopedia

U wave.svg

U wave is a small deflection in the electrocardiogram (ECG) that follows the T wave and precedes the next P wave. The U wave is not always present and its origin is not completely understood. It is generally considered to be a representation of the repolarization of the Purkinje fibers or the papillary muscles.

Characteristics

The U wave is typically seen in the same direction as the T wave and is usually smaller in amplitude. It is most prominent in the precordial leads of the ECG, particularly in leads V2 and V3. The normal U wave amplitude is less than 1-2 mm, and it is best observed at slower heart rates.

Clinical Significance

The presence, absence, or alteration of the U wave can have clinical significance. Prominent U waves can be associated with various conditions, including:

Pathological U Waves

Abnormal U waves can indicate underlying cardiac issues. Inverted U waves, for example, can be a sign of:

Differential Diagnosis

When evaluating U waves, it is important to consider other potential causes of similar ECG findings, such as:

Conclusion

The U wave is a subtle but important component of the ECG that can provide valuable information about a patient's cardiac health. Its presence and characteristics should be carefully evaluated in the context of the overall clinical picture.

See Also



Cardiovascular disease A-Z

Most common cardiac diseases

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

A

B

C

D

E

H

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

I

K

L

M

N

O

P

R

S

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

T

V

W


Stub icon
   This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!



Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:

NYC weight loss doctor appointments

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.

Linkedin_Shiny_Icon Facebook_Shiny_Icon YouTube_icon_(2011-2013) Google plus


Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Retrieved from "https://wikimd.org/w/index.php?title=U_wave&oldid=5808664"

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD