Differential Diagnosis for T Inversion in Leads 2/3 and aVF
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Ischemia or Non-ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI): T inversion in leads 2,3, and aVF suggests ischemia in the inferior wall of the heart, which is commonly supplied by the right coronary artery. This pattern can be seen in NSTEMI or unstable angina.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Inferior Wall Myocardial Infarction: While the ST elevation is not mentioned, T inversion in these leads can also be a sign of a previous inferior wall MI, especially if Q waves are present.
- Cardiac Hypertrophy or Strain Pattern: Conditions like left ventricular hypertrophy can cause T wave inversion due to the increased thickness of the ventricular wall, leading to altered repolarization.
- Bundle Branch Blocks: Certain types of bundle branch blocks, particularly left bundle branch block, can cause T wave inversions in various leads due to the abnormal sequence of ventricular depolarization.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pulmonary Embolism: Although less common, pulmonary embolism can cause T wave inversion in the inferior leads (and sometimes in the anterior leads) due to the strain it puts on the right ventricle. Missing this diagnosis can be fatal.
- Cardiac Tamponade: While the ECG findings in cardiac tamponade are more typically low voltage QRS complexes and electrical alternans, T wave inversion can occasionally be seen, especially if there is associated myocardial ischemia.
Rare Diagnoses
- Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC): This condition can cause T wave inversion in the right precordial leads but can also affect the inferior leads in some cases, due to the replacement of myocardium with fatty tissue.
- Myocarditis: Inflammation of the myocardium can cause various ECG abnormalities, including T wave inversion, although this is less specific and can be seen in many conditions.
- Hypokalemia: Severe potassium deficiency can lead to T wave flattening or inversion, although this would typically be seen in more leads than just the inferior ones.