ST Depression

Follow Up Required

Your child participated in a cardiac screening with Who We Play For. An ECG was performed and reviewed by a licensed Cardiologist with specific training on reading ECGs according to the International Criteria.

Initial findings of that ECG indicate that secondary testing is necessary.

What does it mean to have an abnormal ECG?

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Abnormal ECG Flag

  • Being flagged with an abnormal from the WWPF Medical Advisory team means our pedicatric cardiologist who reviewed the electrocardiogram (ECG) saw something that matches an abnormality. This does not mean with 100% certainty that there is an abnormality, but additional follow up should be done in order to ensure nothing is wrong.

  • It is recommended by the WWPF Medical Advisory Team to receive follow up care within 90 days of an abnormal flag. The person can continue to participate in activities as long as they are symptom free.

  • If there was an abnormal flag on an ECG the following symptoms would be cause for immediate medical attention:

    • Fainting or seizures during or immediately following exercise.

    • Unexplained shortness of breath.

    • Dizziness.

    • Extreme fatigue.

    • Racing heart (feels like it is beating out of your chest).

    • Sudden and unexplained death of a family member under the age of 50.

    If you experience any of these symptoms get an appointment with a pediatric cardiologist right away.

What ST Depression?

According to the American Heart Association, a significant ST depression shows the heart straining. Stressful conditions can cause the heart to be under stress, but doesn't always mean the heart is diseased. ST depression is the most common cause of abnormal ECGs in people with normal hearts. However, a significant ST depression can appear as one of many indicators of heart disease and impending cardiac arrest.

While rare in the young, any time an ST depression appears on an ECG it should be investigated further. For this reason, it's important to follow up with a qualified Cardiologist.

Diagnosis:

ST Depression: ST depression greater than 0.5mm below PR isoelectric line between J-junction and beginning of T wave greater than 0.5mm in any of the lateral leads (I, AVL, V5, V6) and greater than 1mm in any lead

Family History: Review family history

Consult: Pediatric Cardiologist

Secondary Test Might Include:

  • Echocardiogram

  • Stress Test

  • Cardiac MRI

Your child can continue to participate in the current sports season within school/orgnaization guidelines, but should seek the advice of a Cardiologist for a more detailed examination.

Follow Up Care By State

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