In ECG risk assessment, more leads with ST-segment depression indicate what?

In ECG risk assessment, more leads with ST-segment depression indicate what?

• A. Worse prognosis
• B. Better prognosis
• C. No prognostic significance
• D. Cannot be determined

Answer: (A)

More leads showing ST-segment depression reflect a greater ischemic burden. Each ECG lead views a different region of the heart, so depression in multiple leads means ischemia is affecting several territories, indicating more extensive disease. That larger area at risk corresponds to a higher likelihood of adverse events like myocardial infarction or death, so the prognosis is worse. Fewer depressed leads suggest a smaller ischemic area and a comparatively better outlook. In short, the extent of ST-seg depression across the ECG correlates with risk, with more leads depressed signaling higher risk.

More leads showing ST-segment depression reflect a greater ischemic burden. Each ECG lead views a different region of the heart, so depression in multiple leads means ischemia is affecting several territories, indicating more extensive disease. That larger area at risk corresponds to a higher likelihood of adverse events like myocardial infarction or death, so the prognosis is worse. Fewer depressed leads suggest a smaller ischemic area and a comparatively better outlook. In short, the extent of ST-seg depression across the ECG correlates with risk, with more leads depressed signaling higher risk.