What ST-T wave change is associated with left ventricular hypertrophy?

Asymmetric T wave inversion is a significant finding associated with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). In LVH, the left ventricle becomes thicker due to conditions such as hypertension or aortic stenosis. This thickening can lead to changes in the cardiac electrical activity, which is reflected in the electrocardiogram (ECG).

In particular, the strain pattern seen in LVH can result in abnormal T wave morphology, typically characterized by inversion that is often asymmetric. This means one side of the T wave is steeper or more pronounced than the other. This asymmetry is indicative of the increased workload and altered repolarization occurring in a hypertrophied ventricle.

The presence of such T wave inversion is a critical component in diagnosing LVH because it suggests increased left ventricular pressure and volume overload, which are key factors in the development of hypertrophy. Therefore, recognizing these changes on the ECG helps healthcare professionals assess the patient's cardiac function and guides further management.