Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Peaked T waves
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Peaked T waves refers to the pointed, tall, peaked shape of T waves on the EKG in the setting of certain abnormalities such as hyperkalemia.
Differential Diagnosis
Differential Diagnosis
- Differential diagnosis of this EKG change includes the T wave changes of bradycardia or stroke.
- Prominent U waves and QTc prolongation are more consistent with stroke than hyperkalemia.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
- Earliest sign of hyperkalemia
- Occurs with K > 5.5 meq/li
Electrocardiographic Examples
Electrocardiographic Examples
Shown below is the progression of T wave changes in hyperkalemia:
Shown below is an EKG showing peaked T waves in the lateral leads:
Shown below is an EKG showing symmetric, narrow, peaked T waves in the lateral leads:
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]