Can ST segment elevation occur due to a benign early repolarization pattern?

Can ST segment elevation occur due to a benign early repolarization pattern?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only in men
• D. Only in the elderly

Answer: (A)

ST segment elevation can indeed occur due to a benign early repolarization pattern, which is typically seen in healthy individuals, particularly younger adults and athletes. This pattern is characterized by a slight elevation of the ST segment in the precordial leads on an ECG. In the context of benign early repolarization, the elevation of the ST segment is often accompanied by other distinctive features, such as a slurring or notching of the QRS complex, and typically presents in the setting of a normal heart structure and function. Unlike pathological ST segment elevation associated with conditions such as myocardial infarction, benign early repolarization does not suggest underlying cardiac disease. This type of ST segment elevation is more commonly misinterpreted as indicative of a serious cardiac condition. Therefore, it is essential for practitioners to recognize the characteristics and implications of benign early repolarization to differentiate it from other more concerning ST segment elevations occurring due to ischemia or injury.

ST segment elevation can indeed occur due to a benign early repolarization pattern, which is typically seen in healthy individuals, particularly younger adults and athletes. This pattern is characterized by a slight elevation of the ST segment in the precordial leads on an ECG.

In the context of benign early repolarization, the elevation of the ST segment is often accompanied by other distinctive features, such as a slurring or notching of the QRS complex, and typically presents in the setting of a normal heart structure and function. Unlike pathological ST segment elevation associated with conditions such as myocardial infarction, benign early repolarization does not suggest underlying cardiac disease.

This type of ST segment elevation is more commonly misinterpreted as indicative of a serious cardiac condition. Therefore, it is essential for practitioners to recognize the characteristics and implications of benign early repolarization to differentiate it from other more concerning ST segment elevations occurring due to ischemia or injury.