ECG Interpretation


Frontal Plane Leads
There is a marked left axis deviation in the frontal plane. Notice that lead I is positive and AVF is negative. The amplitude of the QRS is very high in the frontal plane. Notice that on lead AVL (which is parallel to this patient's QRS axis), the QRS amplitude is 2 millivolts, which exceeds the upper limit of normal of 1.5 millivolts.

Contrariwise, the axis of T is in the right axis quadrant. Notice that the T-wave on lead I is negative and AVF is slightly positive. This indicates a wide angle between QRS and T, thus suggesting marked left ventricular strain.

There is also a bifid P-wave, suggesting left atrial abnormality (P mitrale).

There is a J-point displacement reflected by S-T depression in the frontal plane leads in the leads that have a positive QRS complex. While this could be secondary to hypertrophy, it is very likely due to digitalis.

Horizontal Plane (precordial or V leads):
The precordial leads show negative QRS complexes with the exception of V-6. Notice the very high voltage of the QRS in most leads. This indicates that the axis of QRS is way to the back, again suggesting left ventricular hypertrophy, since the left ventricle is the posterior ventricle.

Rhythm Strip (bottom channel):
The rhythm strip shows 1 premature ventricular beat (the next to the last beat).

Click here to see an image of the ECG.


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