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Multiple Choice

What is the Sokolow-Lyon criterion for left ventricular hypertrophy?

Left ventricular hypertrophy on an ECG is assessed by QRS voltage. The Sokolow-Lyon criterion uses two leads: the S wave in V1 and the R wave in V5 or V6 (whichever is larger). Add the depth of the S in V1 to the height of the R in V5/V6. If that sum reaches 35 millimeters on the standard ECG tracing, LVH is suggested. Remember, these are millimeters on the paper (with standard calibration, 1 mV equals 10 mm, so 35 mm ≈ 3.5 mV). This approach highlights increased QRS voltage from a larger left ventricle, though it isn’t perfect and can be influenced by body habitus or lead placement.

Left ventricular hypertrophy on an ECG is assessed by QRS voltage. The Sokolow-Lyon criterion uses two leads: the S wave in V1 and the R wave in V5 or V6 (whichever is larger). Add the depth of the S in V1 to the height of the R in V5/V6. If that sum reaches 35 millimeters on the standard ECG tracing, LVH is suggested. Remember, these are millimeters on the paper (with standard calibration, 1 mV equals 10 mm, so 35 mm ≈ 3.5 mV). This approach highlights increased QRS voltage from a larger left ventricle, though it isn’t perfect and can be influenced by body habitus or lead placement.