Pericarditis ECG signs

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Immediate ECG changes (stage1) 
  • Widespread, saddle shaped ST elevation (except AvR and lead 1) 
  • PR interval depression (except AvR and lead 1) 
  • Reciprocal changes in lead 1 and AvR. 
  • Sinus tachycardia due to pain or effusion. 
(taken from: http://cdn.lifeinthefastlane.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/V5-pericarditis.jpg) 

1-3 weeks (stage 2) 
  • Flattened T waves, no ST elevation or PR interval depression. 

3- several weeks (stage 3) 
  • Inverted T waves

several weeks + (stage 4)
  • ECG returns to normal
*not all patients go through the later stages of ECG changes.

http://lifeinthefastlane.com/ecg-library/basics/pericarditis/ (this is a brilliant site!)
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/156951-overview

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