What is the significance of T wave inversion in ECG interpretation?

• A. It indicates hypertension
• B. It suggests heart block
• C. It may indicate myocardial ischemia
• D. It signifies normal heart activity

Answer: (C)

T wave inversion is significant in the context of ECG interpretation because it can indicate myocardial ischemia, which refers to a reduction in blood flow to the heart muscle. This condition often arises when there is a decreased supply of oxygen to the heart, commonly due to coronary artery disease. When myocardial ischemia occurs, the repolarization phase of the cardiac cycle is affected, leading to an inverted T wave on the ECG.

In a healthy heart, the T wave is typically upright. However, when ischemia is present, it causes alterations in the electrical activity of the heart, which is reflected in the T wave morphology. Clinicians recognize T wave inversion as a potentially critical sign and often correlate it with other symptoms and diagnostic findings to assess a patient's coronary perfusion and overall cardiac health.

Interpreting T wave inversion in conjunction with other clinical information and findings is crucial for determining appropriate interventions for conditions like angina or an impending myocardial infarction. This makes understanding the significance of T wave morphology an essential part of ECG analysis.