Abnormal U wave

What it means

An anomaly of the U wave of the electrocardiogram (EKG). The U wave is a small (0.5 mm) deflection immediately following the T wave, usually in the same direction as the T wave. It is best seen in leads V2 and V3.

U waves represent prolonged repolarisation of myocardial M cells. Under normal conditions the M cells are electrically coupled to adjacent cell layers. However, in conditions that produce electrical uncoupling, these M cells have significant effects on repolarisation producing prolonged rounded ST-T waves or U waves. The finding of U wave inversion on an ECG at rest or baseline is a non-specific finding. It is significant when observed post exercise, being originally described in early 1940s. Subsequent studies in the late 1970s, demonstrated a significant correlation of U wave inversion with either left main or LAD disease.

Part of the broader category