The de Winter electrocardiographic pattern of proximal left anterior descending occlusion
Wei Yang1, Hongzhou Liu2, Minjie Zhu3
1Department of Respiratory, Affiliated Hospital of Hebei University, No.212 Yuhua East Road, Baoding, Hebei province 071000, PR China.
Insights
Prompt recognition of acute left anterior descending (LAD) occlusion is vital. This report highlights the de Winter electrocardiogram pattern as a crucial indicator for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), necessitating timely percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Diagnostics
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Prompt recognition of acute left anterior descending (LAD) occlusion is critical for effective reperfusion therapy in acute myocardial infarction (AMI).
- Atypical electrocardiographic presentations can delay diagnosis and treatment, posing a significant clinical challenge.
Observation:
- This report details two cases of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) caused by proximal LAD occlusion.
- These patients exhibited an atypical electrocardiographic manifestation, specifically the de Winter electrocardiogram pattern.
Findings:
- The de Winter electrocardiogram pattern, though atypical, is a significant indicator of acute LAD occlusion.
- Early identification of this pattern is crucial for initiating timely interventions.
Implications:
- Recognizing the de Winter electrocardiogram pattern is essential for the early diagnosis of AMI in patients with suspected LAD occlusion.
- Emergency percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) should be considered promptly in patients presenting with this pattern to improve outcomes.
Abstract:
Prompt recognition of electrocardiographic signs of acute left anterior descending (LAD) occlusion is essential for timely restoration of flow. However, some patients may present with atypical electrocardiographic signs, and early diagnosis of these patients may constitute a clinical challenge. Here, we report two cases presenting with an atypical electrocardiographic manifestation despite angiographically confirmed acute thrombotic occlusion of proximal LAD. These cases highlight the importance of recognizing the de Winter electrocardiogram pattern in cases of suspected acute myocardial infarction (AMI). An emergency percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) should be performed in suspected AMI patients as early as possible.
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