Ideal isoelectric reference segment in pericarditis: a suggested approach to a commonly prevailing clinical misconception

Cardiology. 2012;122(4):210-2. doi: 10.1159/000339758. Epub 2012 Aug 8.

Abstract

Individual practice patterns of cardiologists and internists vary in interpreting electrocardiograms by measuring and defining significant ST deviation using different segments as isoelectric references. Even standard electrocardiography textbooks and recent literature studies provide variable opinions for using isoelectric references and measurement of ST-segment deflections. In our current manuscript, we aim to define a standard baseline/isoelectric segment using a short literature review and also to share our opinion for the use of a standard isoelectric reference for patients of pericarditis which is one of the commonest causes of nonischemic ST-segment elevation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Electrocardiography / methods*
  • Humans
  • Myocardial Infarction / diagnosis
  • Pericarditis / diagnosis*
  • Reference Values