The loss of an R wave progression, sometimes called a ____, is suggestive of an anterior wall MI.

Question

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A loss of R wave progression in the anterior leads (V1-V4) can be seen in patients with an anterior wall myocardial infarction (MI). This is sometimes referred to as a "reverse R wave progression" because the usual sequence of R wave amplitude increasing from V1 to V4 is disrupted, resulting in larger R waves in the right precordial leads (V1-V3) and smaller R waves or even S waves in the left precordial leads (V4-V6). This pattern can also be seen in other conditions that cause anterior wall abnormalities, such as left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), but in the context of an acute coronary syndrome, it is highly suggestive of an MI.

The Loss of an R Wave Progression, Sometimes Called a ____