What is a characteristic feature of the T wave in left ventricular hypertrophy?

What is a characteristic feature of the T wave in left ventricular hypertrophy?

• A. Prominent and upright
• B. Flat and symmetrical
• C. Inverted and asymmetrical
• D. Notched and biphasic

Answer: (C)

In the context of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), the T wave often becomes inverted and may appear asymmetrical on an electrocardiogram (EKG). This inversion typically occurs due to the altered repolarization of the ventricles as a result of increased muscle mass and changes in the electrical pathways associated with the hypertrophied myocardium.

The presence of an inverted and asymmetrical T wave in LVH is a crucial finding that can help differentiate it from other conditions. This pattern suggests that the repolarization process is being affected by the pre-existing structural changes in the heart due to hypertrophy, leading to an altered vector of the T wave. The other options, while describing various T wave characteristics that may be seen in other cardiac conditions, do not align with the typical presentation associated with LVH.