An unusual ECG deflection: Fact or artifact?
Daniel F Kupsky1, Marc K Lahiri1, Claudio D Schuger1
1Heart and Vascular Institute, Henry Ford Hospital System, Detroit, MI, USA.
Journal of Electrocardiology
|October 7, 2017
Summary
An unusual electrocardiogram (ECG) finding in an elderly woman, resembling a tiny QRS complex, was ultimately deemed an artifact. This case highlights the importance of careful ECG review to distinguish genuine findings from potential artifacts.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Electrocardiography (ECG) is crucial for diagnosing cardiac conditions.
- Peculiar ECG findings require thorough investigation for accurate interpretation.
Observation:
- An 85-year-old woman presented with incidentally discovered high-grade atrioventricular block.
- A puzzling ECG complex was observed, characterized by a tiny QRS following non-conducted P-waves at regular R-R intervals.
Findings:
- The observed ECG complex defied conventional physiological explanations.
- Despite the unusual morphology, the patient declined further diagnostic work-up.
Implications:
- The case underscores the potential for artifacts to mimic genuine, albeit rare, electrocardiographic phenomena.
- Careful clinical correlation and assessment of reproducibility are essential when encountering unexplained ECG findings.
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