Analysis of electrocardiographic parameters in helmeted guinea fowl (Numida meleagris)

The goal of this study was to describe normal electrocardiographic (ECG) patterns and values in conscious helmeted guinea fowl (Numida meleagris). Using 8 clinically healthy birds, 4 males and 4 females, standard bipolar and augmented unipolar limb lead ECGs were recorded. Wave forms were analyzed in all leads at 50 mm/s and at 10 mm = 1 mV to determine PR, QRS, ST, QT durations; the net QRS complex; and P and T amplitudes. The polarity of each wave form was tabulated in all leads. The mean electrical axis (MEA) for the frontal plane was calculated by using leads II and III. The mean (SD) heart rate calculated from the lead II was 338.4 +/- 19.0 beats/min. The P wave was predominantly positive in all leads. The dominant pattern of wave forms of the QRS complexes was RS in leads II, III, and aVF; R in lead I; QR in lead aVR; and qR in lead aVL. The T wave was predominantly positive in leads I, II, III, and aVF. The mean (SD) of the heart MEA was -60.2 degrees +/- 24.0 degrees. The ECG values and patterns tabulated in these clinically normal helmeted guinea fowl should provide a means of comparison to aid in the diagnosis of pathologic abnormalities in this species.