P Wave Morphology: Difference between revisions

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==The Abnormal P wave==
==The Abnormal P wave==


Elevation or depression of the [[PTa segment]] (the part between the p wave and the beginning of the QRS complex) can result from [[Ischemia#Atrial infarction|Atrial infarction]] or [[Clinical Disorders#Pericarditis|pericarditis]].
Elevation or depression of the [[PTa segment]] (the part between the p wave and the beginning of the QRS complex) can result from [[Ischemia#Atrial infarction|atrial infarction]] or [[Clinical Disorders#Pericarditis|pericarditis]].


If the p-wave is enlarged, the [[Chamber_Hypertrophy_and_Enlargment#Left_atrial_enlargement|atria are enlarged]].
If the p-wave is enlarged, the [[Chamber_Hypertrophy_and_Enlargment#Left_atrial_enlargement|atria are enlarged]].

Revision as of 23:09, 16 January 2010

«Step 4:Heart axis Step 6: QRS morphology»


Author(s) J.S.S.G. de Jong, MD, A. Bouhiouf, Msc
Moderator J.S.S.G. de Jong, MD
Supervisor
some notes about authorship


The Normal P wave

The P wave morphology can reveal right or left atrial stretch or atrial arrhythmias and is best determined in leads II and V1 during sinus rhythm.

Characteristics of a normal p wave:[1]

  • The maximal height of the P wave is 2.5 mm in leads II and / or III
  • The p wave is positive in II and AVF, and biphasic in V1
  • The p wave duration is shorter than 0.12 seconds
An example of normal sinus rhythm.
center}Another example of normal sinus rhythm.

The Abnormal P wave

Elevation or depression of the PTa segment (the part between the p wave and the beginning of the QRS complex) can result from atrial infarction or pericarditis.

If the p-wave is enlarged, the atria are enlarged.

If the P wave is inverted, it is most likely an ectopic atrial rhythm not originating from the sinus node.

Altered P wave morfology is seen in left or right atrial enlargement.
The PTa segment can be used to diagnose pericarditis or atrial infarction.