Memory T-Waves: An Uncharted Territory in T-Wave Inversions

Cureus. 2023 Oct 25;15(10):e47620. doi: 10.7759/cureus.47620. eCollection 2023 Oct.

Abstract

T-wave inversions on electrocardiograms (ECGs) can present a diagnostic challenge due to their association with various underlying causes. One less-explored cause is memory T-waves, a phenomenon characterized by T-wave inversions, often seen in chest and inferior leads, following a period of abnormal ventricular conduction. In this case report, we discuss the intriguing case of an 80-year-old woman who recently underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for a myocardial infarction and subsequently developed memory T-waves. We are also discussing how important it can be to understand and recognize memory T-waves, as it will avoid further unnecessary tests and longer hospital stays.

Keywords: cardiac chest pain; electrocardiography (ecg); ischemic heart disease; memory t waves; myocardial infarction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports