An inferior ST-elevation myocardial infarction occurs with ST elevation in leads II, III and aVF. Which artery is most likely occluded?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. The right coronary artery
- Step 1: The inferior leads face the diaphragmatic surface of the left ventricle. Step 2. Inferior ST elevation usually reflects occlusion of the right coronary artery, in most people the vessel giving the posterior descending branch. Answer: The right coronary artery. Why not the others: LAD occlusion gives anterior changes in V1 to V4. Circumflex occlusion gives lateral changes in I, aVL, V5 and V6. Left main occlusion gives widespread changes and aVR elevation.
Practise more Cardiovascular medicine.
Free questions with an explanation for every one, and full timed UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test (MSRA-style single best answer) mock tests.
More Cardiovascular medicine questions
- A man has had 3 hours of crushing chest pain and the ECG shows ST elevation in leads V2 to V5. The nearest primary PCI centre can deliver tr…
- Which immediate drug should be offered to a patient with suspected acute coronary syndrome unless contraindicated?
- Which drug class has been shown to reduce mortality in chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction?
- A 72-year-old woman with non-valvular atrial fibrillation has hypertension and type 2 diabetes but no other relevant history. What is her CH…
- A 48-year-old man has non-valvular atrial fibrillation and hypertension, and no other risk factors. Which statement reflects NICE guidance o…
- Which anticoagulant is the appropriate choice for stroke prevention in a patient with atrial fibrillation and a mechanical mitral valve?