A left-sided pneumothorax can result in changes to the electrocardiogram.
Findings:
(1) low QRS amplitude in limb and precordial leads
(2) poor R-wave progression in the precordial leads
(3) increased ratio of QRS amplitude in aVF to I (> 2, associated with low QRS voltage in I)
(4) variation in changes with respirations
(5) reversal of changes after correction of pneumothorax
Differential diagnosis:
(1) acute myocardial infarction
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
Specialty: Cardiology, Pulmonology