EKG in uremic pericarditis

Q: Chronic uremic pericarditis presents on EKG as more intense diffuse ST- and T-wave elevations than other forms of pericarditis? 

A) True 
B) False 



Answer: False 

Unlike other pericarditis, uremic pericarditis does not produce diffuse ST- and T-wave elevations on EKG. This is due to the lack of penetration of the inflammatory cells into the myocardium. And, if uremic pericarditis shows diffuse ST elevations on EKG, it suggests other underlying disease process. 

#cardiology
#nephrology



References:

Gunukula SR, Spodick DH. Pericardial disease in renal patients. Semin Nephrol 2001; 21:52.