Pseudo left axis deviation and the S1S2S3 syndrome in chronic airway obstruction

Pseudo left axis deviation (not true left axis deviation and the S1S2S3 syndrome are infrequently reported electrocardiographic findings in chronic airway obstruction. One hundred fifty-eight patients with severe chronic airway obstruction documented by pulmonary function testing were evaluated for these electrocardiographic findings. Pseudo left axis deviation was found in 23 patients (15 percent), and the S1S2S3 syndrome was found in 14 patients (9 percent). The electrocardiographic and vectorcardiographic findings are illustrated.