An ST segment elevation in leads V1 and V2 can be indicative of which type of myocardial infarction?

An ST segment elevation in leads V1 and V2 can be indicative of which type of myocardial infarction?

• A. Inferior infarction
• B. Lateral infarction
• C. Anterior infarction
• D. Posterior infarction

Answer: (C)

ST segment elevation in leads V1 and V2 is primarily associated with an anterior myocardial infarction. The reasoning behind this is based on the anatomical representation of the heart in relation to the electrocardiogram (EKG) leads. Leads V1 and V2 are positioned over the anterior wall of the left ventricle and are particularly sensitive to changes that occur in this region, such as those that result from occlusion of the left anterior descending artery.

In a typical anterior infarction, there's a prominent elevation of the ST segment in these leads due to ischemia and injury to the myocardial tissue in the anterior area. Recognizing the correlation between ST segment changes in these precordial leads and the underlying affected territory is critical in diagnosing the type of myocardial infarction and determining the most appropriate course of treatment.

In contrast, inferior infarctions are generally noted in leads II, III, and aVF, while lateral infarctions manifest as ST elevation in leads I, aVL, V5, and V6. Posterior infarctions are characterized by mirror-image changes in the anterior leads, which do not show ST elevation. Understanding these specific lead associations allows for accurate identification of myocardial infarction locations.