What are U waves and in which conditions are they typically seen?

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Multiple Choice

What are U waves and in which conditions are they typically seen?

U waves are small deflections that occur after the T wave, reflecting late ventricular repolarization. They’re most noticeable when potassium is low (hypokalemia) and can appear with other electrolyte disturbances or slow heart rates. They are not seen before the P wave, nor are they a feature of left bundle branch block. Left bundle branch block can show changes like notching or broadening of the R wave, which is a different pattern, and pericarditis classically produces ST elevations. So the post‑T wave, small, extra deflection that is prominent in hypokalemia best defines U waves.

U waves are small deflections that occur after the T wave, reflecting late ventricular repolarization. They’re most noticeable when potassium is low (hypokalemia) and can appear with other electrolyte disturbances or slow heart rates. They are not seen before the P wave, nor are they a feature of left bundle branch block. Left bundle branch block can show changes like notching or broadening of the R wave, which is a different pattern, and pericarditis classically produces ST elevations. So the post‑T wave, small, extra deflection that is prominent in hypokalemia best defines U waves.

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