Electrocardiographic manifestations in severe hypokalemia

J Int Med Res. 2020 Jan;48(1):300060518811058. doi: 10.1177/0300060518811058. Epub 2018 Dec 4.

Abstract

Hypokalemia is one of the most common electrolyte disturbances in the clinic and it can increase the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias. Electrocardiographic characteristics associated with hypokalemia include dynamic changes in T-wave morphology, ST-segment depression, and U waves, which are often best seen in the mid-precordial leads (V2–V4). The PR interval can also be prolonged along with an increase in the amplitude of the P wave. We report a case of a patient with hypokalemia (1.31 mmol/L) who showed typical electrocardiographic characteristics of hypokalemia.

Keywords: Hypokalemia; T wave; arrhythmia; diarrhea; electrocardiogram; potassium.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Electrocardiography / methods*
  • Humans
  • Hypokalemia / physiopathology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Severity of Illness Index