What findings on an EKG would point towards myocardial injury?

What findings on an EKG would point towards myocardial injury?

• A. Inverted T waves only
• B. Elevation of ST segments
• C. U waves presence
• D. ST segment depression only

Answer: (B)

Myocardial injury is characterized by significant changes in the EKG, with ST segment elevation being one of the key indicators. When the heart tissue is injured, such as in the case of an acute myocardial infarction (AMI), it can lead to an elevation in the ST segment on the EKG. This elevation reflects the acute change in the myocardial cells, indicating ischemia and potential damage.

In cases of myocardial injury, the ST segment elevation is typically localized to the leads that correspond to the area of the heart affected, making it a critical finding for diagnosing conditions such as STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction).

Other findings, like inverted T waves or the presence of U waves, are not specific indicators of myocardial injury. Inverted T waves can signify ischemia but are not exclusive to injury; they may appear in other conditions such as left ventricular hypertrophy or central nervous system events. Similarly, ST segment depression is often indicative of subendocardial ischemia rather than injury and can occur during exertion due to angina. U waves are generally associated with electrolyte imbalances and do not signal myocardial injury. Thus, elevation of ST segments is a clear and critical finding that denotes myocardial injury.