Journal of International Medical Research (Jan 2020)

Electrocardiographic manifestations in severe hypokalemia

  • Xiqiang Wang,
  • Dan Han,
  • Guoliang Li

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/0300060518811058
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 48

Abstract

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Hypokalemia is one of the most common electrolyte disturbances in the clinic and it can increase the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias. Electrocardiographic characteristics associated with hypokalemia include dynamic changes in T-wave morphology, ST-segment depression, and U waves, which are often best seen in the mid-precordial leads (V2–V4). The PR interval can also be prolonged along with an increase in the amplitude of the P wave. We report a case of a patient with hypokalemia (1.31 mmol/L) who showed typical electrocardiographic characteristics of hypokalemia.