Can you interpret an uploaded electrocardiogram (ECG) photo for diagnosis?

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Last updated: November 20, 2025View editorial policy

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AI Cannot Interpret Uploaded ECG Images

I cannot analyze, interpret, or provide diagnostic information from uploaded ECG photos or images. This is a fundamental limitation of my capabilities as a text-based AI system.

Why ECG Image Interpretation Requires Human Expertise

Technical and Clinical Requirements

  • ECG interpretation requires systematic visual analysis of waveform morphology, intervals, and segments that must be performed by trained healthcare providers, as emphasized by the American Heart Association 1

  • Computer-assisted ECG interpretation should always be verified by a qualified physician who integrates clinical data and compares with previous tracings, according to the American College of Cardiology 2

  • The ECG must be interpreted in the context of the patient's clinical presentation, as the same finding may have different implications depending on symptoms 3

Critical Limitations of Automated Systems

  • Computer interpretation alone is not recognized as a properly interpreted ECG, and physician review is essential for accurate diagnosis, according to the American Heart Association 3

  • Computerized ECG interpretations should always be verified by a qualified physician, as recommended by the American College of Cardiology with high level of evidence 2

  • Computer-generated axis calculations and diagnostic statements must always be verified by a qualified physician who integrates clinical data, as errors in computer interpretation remain common 2, 3

What You Should Do Instead

Seek Appropriate Medical Evaluation

  • A 12-lead ECG should be acquired and interpreted by prehospital or emergency providers as soon as possible after first patient contact in patients with suspected acute coronary syndromes 1

  • The interpretation should be used in conjunction with clinical signs and presentation for diagnosis and triage, including destination decisions 1

  • ECG interpretation requires mandatory initial training and ongoing concurrent medical oversight, even for paramedics and nurses who independently identify conditions like STEMI 1

Common Pitfall to Avoid

  • Never rely on non-physician interpretation without proper oversight, as the ECG diagnosis is made by inference from electrical activity and is subject to error, with the same ECG pattern potentially occurring in different structural and pathophysiologic states 2

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Guideline

ECG Interpretation Guidelines

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025

Guideline

EKG Interpretation Guidelines

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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