Common pitfalls in the interpretation of electrocardiograms from patients with acute coronary syndromes with narrow QRS: a consensus report

Yochai Birnbaum*, Antonio Bayes de Luna, Miquel Fiol, Kjell Nikus, Peter Macfarlane, Anton Gorgels, Alessandro Sionis, Juan Cinca, Jose A. Barrabes, Olle Pahlm, Samuel Sclarovsky, Hein Wellens, Leonard Gettes

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

37 Citations (Web of Science)

Abstract

Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) with narrow QRS are divided into 2 groups: ST-elevation ACS that requires emergency percutaneous coronary intervention, and non-ST elevation ACS. The classification of ACS into these 2 groups is not always straightforward. In this document, we discuss several electrocardiogram patterns of acute ischemia that are often misinterpreted. We suggest that any new recommendations or guidelines from the Scientific Societies should acknowledge these aspects of electrocardiogram interpretation by including appropriate diagnostic criteria that should prove helpful for the optimal management of patients with ACS.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)463-475
JournalJournal of Electrocardiology
Volume45
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2012

Keywords

  • Electrocardiogram
  • Acute coronary syndromes
  • ST elevation
  • ST depression
  • T wave

Cite this