T Wave Contour in the Precordial Leads During Childhood

Abstract

The T wave in the precordial V leads was studied in 187 normal children and young adults in the age range of 2 weeks to 20 years and in 164 individuals of like age with cardiovascular disease or with disease or medication capable of affecting the cardiovascular system. On the basis of this analysis correlated with a survey of the literature, it is concluded that: a. An upright T wave in lead V2 or leads further to the right should be considered abnormal in children between 2 weeks and 9 years of age until proved otherwise. b. The normal sequence in the direction of the T wave from V4R to V6 is from a negative to a positive wave with transitional forms which may be notched or diphasic. The reversal of this pattern is to be considered abnormal. c. The presence of unexpected T wave contours in specific leads at the different ages should be considered as evidence demanding re-examination of the ECG and of the child for abnormalities.