What does ST segment elevation indicate?

ST segment elevation primarily indicates possible myocardial ischemia or infarction, which refers to the reduction of blood flow to the heart muscle, leading to damage or death of heart cells. This elevation is commonly identified on an electrocardiogram (ECG) and is a critical finding in patients experiencing chest pain or other symptoms suggestive of an acute coronary syndrome.

When the heart tissue is deprived of adequate oxygen and blood supply, it can cause changes in the electrical activity of the heart as seen in an ECG. The elevation in the ST segment is a sign that the myocardial cells depolarize and repolarize abnormally due to acute injury. It is particularly associated with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI), necessitating prompt medical intervention to restore blood flow and minimize heart damage.

Understanding this physiological response aids healthcare providers in diagnosing and managing cardiac emergencies effectively, enabling timely interventions like coronary angioplasty or thrombolytic therapy.