What ECG change occurs with hypercalcemia?

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Multiple Choice

What ECG change occurs with hypercalcemia?

Hypercalcemia speeds up ventricular repolarization, which shortens the ST segment. Since the QT interval spans from the start of the QRS to the end of the T wave, a shorter ST segment leads to a shorter QT interval overall. The rest of the tracing—PR interval and QRS width—usually remains normal, so the key change you look for is a noticeably shortened QT. This helps distinguish it from other electrolyte issues: hypocalcemia lengthens the ST segment and prolongs the QT, while ST depression is more indicative of ischemia or other conditions, and tall T waves are typically seen with hyperkalemia rather than hypercalcemia.

Hypercalcemia speeds up ventricular repolarization, which shortens the ST segment. Since the QT interval spans from the start of the QRS to the end of the T wave, a shorter ST segment leads to a shorter QT interval overall. The rest of the tracing—PR interval and QRS width—usually remains normal, so the key change you look for is a noticeably shortened QT.

This helps distinguish it from other electrolyte issues: hypocalcemia lengthens the ST segment and prolongs the QT, while ST depression is more indicative of ischemia or other conditions, and tall T waves are typically seen with hyperkalemia rather than hypercalcemia.

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