What does a negative QRS complex in lead V2 indicate?

What does a negative QRS complex in lead V2 indicate?

• A. Atrial enlargement
• B. Normal heart position
• C. Potential ventricular hypertrophy
• D. Normal finding in auscultation

Answer: (C)

A negative QRS complex in lead V2 is indicative of potential ventricular hypertrophy. In the context of the heart's electrical activity, lead V2 is positioned in a way that allows for the assessment of the anterior and lateral aspects of the heart, particularly focusing on the left ventricle. When there is an increase in the muscle mass of the heart's ventricles—often due to conditions such as hypertension or other forms of cardiac stress—it can lead to changes in the electrical conduction patterns, resulting in a negative QRS complex.

This negativity in lead V2 occurs as a result of the vector shift caused by the thickened myocardial wall, which can produce a deviation in the electrical axis of the heart. Therefore, detecting a negative QRS complex can provide insights into possible structural changes, such as ventricular hypertrophy, rather than other cardiac concerns that would not typically manifest in this specific electrocardiographic finding. Understanding this relationship is crucial for interpreting EKG results and assessing cardiac health.