Which ECG finding is typical of STEMI?

Which ECG finding is typical of STEMI?

• A. ST segment depression
• B. ST segment elevation
• C. T wave inversion
• D. Normal tracing

Answer: (B)

STEMI is indicated on the ECG by ST-segment elevation in two or more contiguous leads, reflecting acute transmural myocardial injury from a coronary artery occlusion. The ST segment rises above the baseline (often measured as >1 mm in limb leads or >2 mm in chest leads), and this elevation signals that the injured heart muscle spans the full thickness of the wall. Early on you might also see hyperacute T waves before the ST segment rises. By contrast, ST-segment depression or T wave inversion usually points to ischemia without a full-thickness infarct (non-ST-elevation MI or other conditions), and a normal tracing does not indicate STEMI. Recognizing ST elevation is crucial because it demands urgent reperfusion therapy.

STEMI is indicated on the ECG by ST-segment elevation in two or more contiguous leads, reflecting acute transmural myocardial injury from a coronary artery occlusion. The ST segment rises above the baseline (often measured as >1 mm in limb leads or >2 mm in chest leads), and this elevation signals that the injured heart muscle spans the full thickness of the wall. Early on you might also see hyperacute T waves before the ST segment rises. By contrast, ST-segment depression or T wave inversion usually points to ischemia without a full-thickness infarct (non-ST-elevation MI or other conditions), and a normal tracing does not indicate STEMI. Recognizing ST elevation is crucial because it demands urgent reperfusion therapy.