What does a peaked T wave commonly indicate on an ECG?

What does a peaked T wave commonly indicate on an ECG?

• A. Hypokalemia
• B. Hyperkalemia
• C. Myocardial ischaemia
• D. Bradycardia

Answer: (B)

A peaked T wave on an ECG is commonly indicative of hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood. Under normal circumstances, T waves are smooth and rounded. However, when there is an excess of potassium, the myocardium’s repolarization process is altered, leading to characteristic changes in the T wave morphology. Peaked T waves typically appear tall and narrow, and they are considered one of the earliest ECG changes seen in patients with hyperkalemia. This phenomenon occurs because potassium plays a crucial role in cardiac action potentials. An increase in extracellular potassium concentration leads to changes in the resting membrane potential, making it less negative, which can result in more pronounced T wave peaks on the ECG. Recognizing this change is vital for early detection and management of hyperkalemia, which can lead to serious cardiac complications if not addressed promptly.

A peaked T wave on an ECG is commonly indicative of hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood. Under normal circumstances, T waves are smooth and rounded. However, when there is an excess of potassium, the myocardium’s repolarization process is altered, leading to characteristic changes in the T wave morphology. Peaked T waves typically appear tall and narrow, and they are considered one of the earliest ECG changes seen in patients with hyperkalemia.

This phenomenon occurs because potassium plays a crucial role in cardiac action potentials. An increase in extracellular potassium concentration leads to changes in the resting membrane potential, making it less negative, which can result in more pronounced T wave peaks on the ECG. Recognizing this change is vital for early detection and management of hyperkalemia, which can lead to serious cardiac complications if not addressed promptly.