Which EKG finding is classically associated with hypothermia?

Which EKG finding is classically associated with hypothermia?

• A. Atrial flutter
• B. Osborn waves
• C. ST elevation
• D. Peaked T waves

Answer: (B)

Hypothermia produces a distinctive J wave on the ECG, known as the Osborn wave. This appears as a positive deflection at the end of the QRS complex, most evident in the precordial leads, and it becomes more pronounced as temperature falls (often seen when core temp is very low, typically below about 32°C). The Osborn wave reflects temperature-dependent differences in myocardial repolarization, with greater disparity between epicardial and endocardial cells causing this notch-like deflection at the junction between the QRS and the ST segment. While hypothermia can cause various rhythm disturbances, this specific J-point wave is classically tied to the cold state. In contrast, atrial flutter is a rhythm with sawtooth flutter waves, ST elevation points to injury or pericarditis, and peaked T waves are more characteristic of hyperkalemia.

Hypothermia produces a distinctive J wave on the ECG, known as the Osborn wave. This appears as a positive deflection at the end of the QRS complex, most evident in the precordial leads, and it becomes more pronounced as temperature falls (often seen when core temp is very low, typically below about 32°C). The Osborn wave reflects temperature-dependent differences in myocardial repolarization, with greater disparity between epicardial and endocardial cells causing this notch-like deflection at the junction between the QRS and the ST segment. While hypothermia can cause various rhythm disturbances, this specific J-point wave is classically tied to the cold state. In contrast, atrial flutter is a rhythm with sawtooth flutter waves, ST elevation points to injury or pericarditis, and peaked T waves are more characteristic of hyperkalemia.