54 year old male CC: Chest pain - Discussion

Once again we see the importance of serial ECGs in the treatment of a suspected ACS patient. The difference between the first and second 12-lead ECG is the key to solving this case.

As you can see, the T-waves become more pronounced in leads V2-V5 (blue) and the ST-depression becomes more obvious in leads III and aVF (red).

When you consider any ECG abnormality you should "consider the company it keeps". 

Without the benefit of the first ECG that provides the baseline, you might be forgiven for thinking the T-waves in the second ECG represent benign early repolarization.

However, with changes on serially obtained ECGs that correspond to new symptoms, the T-wave changes strongly suggest acute developing anterior STEMI.

The reciprocal changes in the inferior leads remove all doubt.

See also:

To see previous cases involving serial ECGs CLICK HERE.

54 year old male CC: Chest pain - Discussion

Once again we see the importance of serial ECGs in the treatment of a suspected ACS patient. The difference between the first and second 12-lead ECG is the key to solving this case.

As you can see, the T-waves become more pronounced in leads V2-V5 (blue) and the ST-depression becomes more obvious in leads III and aVF (red).

When you consider any ECG abnormality you should "consider the company it keeps". 

Without the benefit of the first ECG that provides the baseline, you might be forgiven for thinking the T-waves in the second ECG represent benign early repolarization.

However, with changes on serially obtained ECGs that correspond to new symptoms, the T-wave changes strongly suggest acute developing anterior STEMI.

The reciprocal changes in the inferior leads remove all doubt.