Q and non-Q wave myocardial infarctions.
Previously, the classification of MI into transmural and subendocardial types has been based on the presence or absence of abnormal Q waves. The pathologic anatomy of necrosis in MI does not necessarily correspond to these ECG criteria. Thus, it is more appropriate to describe myocardial infarcts as Q wave or non-Q wave infarcts. The importance of this classification is underscored by their clinical and pathologic differences and the tendency for more serious prognosis in the non-Q wave infarcts. It should be noted that in Q wave infarcts the volume of necrosis is usually greater than that in non-Q wave infarcts.
Keller
K B
KB
Department of Medicine, University of Miami School of Medicine, FL 33101.
Lemberg
L
L
D004562:Electrocardiography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis*