What does ST segment depression indicate?

What does ST segment depression indicate?

• A. Infarction
• B. Ischemia
• C. Injury
• D. Normal variant

Answer: (B)

ST segment depression is indicative of ischemia, which is a condition where the blood flow (and hence oxygen) to a part of the heart muscle is insufficient to meet its needs. This can occur during periods of exertion or stress, when the heart muscle requires more oxygen than usual. In an ECG reading, ST segment depression appears as a downward slope from the baseline at the end of the QRS complex and can suggest that some part of the myocardium is not receiving adequate blood supply. This is often seen in cases of coronary artery disease, where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow. Ischemia can manifest as chest pain or discomfort, but it can also be asymptomatic in some patients, making ECG interpretation critical for diagnosis. Recognizing ST segment depression on an ECG can therefore prompt further evaluation, such as stress testing or coronary angiography, to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management.

ST segment depression is indicative of ischemia, which is a condition where the blood flow (and hence oxygen) to a part of the heart muscle is insufficient to meet its needs. This can occur during periods of exertion or stress, when the heart muscle requires more oxygen than usual.

In an ECG reading, ST segment depression appears as a downward slope from the baseline at the end of the QRS complex and can suggest that some part of the myocardium is not receiving adequate blood supply. This is often seen in cases of coronary artery disease, where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow.

Ischemia can manifest as chest pain or discomfort, but it can also be asymptomatic in some patients, making ECG interpretation critical for diagnosis. Recognizing ST segment depression on an ECG can therefore prompt further evaluation, such as stress testing or coronary angiography, to determine the underlying cause and appropriate management.