How is pericarditis diagnosed on ECG?

Features suggesting pericarditis

1. Generalised ST elevation.
2. Presence of PR depression.
3. Normal T wave amplitude.
4. ST segment / T wave ratio > 0.25.
5. Absence of “fish hook” appearance in V4.
6. Dynamic ECG changes that evolve slowly over time.

Can an ECG detect pericarditis?

Diagnostic Tests During this test, the electrodes in the ECG are placed on the chest skin for measuring the electrical function of the heart. Distinctive changes in the electrical activity of the heart can be easily detected by the ECG in people with pericarditis.

Which of the following are characteristic of pericarditis?

Acute pericarditis typically presents with acute onset severe, sharp retrosternal chest pain, often radiating to the neck, shoulders, or back. Positional changes are characteristic with worsening of the pain in the supine position and with inspiration; and improvement with sitting upright and leaning forward.

What is the difference between endocarditis and pericarditis?

• Endocarditis is the inflammation of the inner covering of the heart while pericarditis is inflammation of the outer covering of the heart. • Endocarditis presents commonly with palpitation, fever of unknown origin, and chest pain. Pericarditis presents with a chest pain that lessens with bending forwards.

What are the differential diagnoses for acute pericarditis?

Differential Diagnoses of Acute Pericarditis Acute coronary syndrome Angina pectoris Coronary artery vasospasm Esophageal spasm Gastroesophageal reflux disease Pulmonary embolism

What is the pathophysiology of acute pericarditis?

Pathology and Pathophysiology of Acute Pericarditis. An inflamed pericardium shows a polymorphonuclear infiltrate on microscopy and vascularization. Inflammatory signaling may stimulate the release of fluid that could result in an effusion or fibrinous reactants that could result in a constrictive complication.

What is acute idiopathic pericarditis?

Acute pericarditis is classified as idiopathic if a viral etiology is presumed and no secondary cause (i.e., autoimmune problem, malignancy, drug) can be identified ( TABLE 1 ). Acute pericarditis occurs more often in men than in women, and in more adults than children.