Hyperventilation Leading to Transient T-wave Inversion Mimicking Unstable Angina
1Internal Medicine, 12 Air Force Hospital, Gorakhpur, IND.
Cureus
|March 4, 2021
Summary
Transient T-wave inversion on ECG can signal serious issues. This case highlights hyperventilation syndrome as a reversible cause, often overlooked in clinical practice.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Transient T-wave inversion on electrocardiogram (ECG) is a frequent and concerning finding, often linked to life-threatening conditions.
- While numerous causes exist, including acute coronary syndrome and subarachnoid hemorrhage, hyperventilation is a frequently overlooked etiology.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old physician presented with acute dyspnea and atypical chest pain.
- Initial assessment revealed respiratory alkalosis on arterial blood gas analysis.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited transient T-wave inversion on ECG, which resolved with reassurance and normalization of breathing.
- A comprehensive cardiac workup yielded normal results, ruling out acute cardiac events.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering hyperventilation syndrome in the differential diagnosis of transient T-wave inversion, especially in younger patients presenting with respiratory symptoms.
- Prompt recognition and management of hyperventilation can prevent unnecessary investigations and interventions for potentially life-threatening conditions.
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