What type of elevation is seen on an EKG in patients with pericarditis?

In patients with pericarditis, diffuse ST elevation on an EKG is a characteristic finding. This type of elevation tends to be widespread across multiple leads rather than localized, which can help differentiate it from ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), where the elevation is usually confined to specific leads corresponding to the area of cardiac muscle affected.

The diffuse ST elevation associated with pericarditis typically has a concave upward appearance and is not accompanied by reciprocal changes that are often observed in STEMI. Additionally, this ST elevation is usually accompanied by PR segment depression, which can also aid in the diagnosis of pericarditis. Clinically, pericarditis may present with sharp chest pain that is often relieved by sitting forward, and the EKG changes are key to confirming the diagnosis.

In summary, the presence of diffuse ST elevation on the EKG is significant in identifying pericarditis, contributing to its clinical management and differentiation from other cardiac conditions.