The Electrocardiographic Manifestations of Spontaneous Left Pneumothorax

Abstract

The electrocardiograms (ECG) of seven patients with spontaneous left pneumothorax showed these changes resulting from left pneumothorax: a rightward shift of frontal QRS axis, diminution of precordial R voltage, decrease in QRS amplitude, and precordial T-wave inversion. The electrocardiographic features differ from those seen in acute myocardial infarction because of the absence of ST-segment elevation and significant Q waves. Physicians should be aware of the electrocardiographic changes in left pneumothorax to avoid confusion in differential diagnosis.