What are EKG abnormalities commonly found in myocarditis?

In myocarditis, the most commonly observed EKG abnormalities include sinus tachycardia, various arrhythmias, and conduction blocks. Sinus tachycardia is often present due to the inflammatory process and associated symptoms such as fever or pain. Arrhythmias can arise from the involvement of the myocardium, which disrupts normal electrical conduction and can lead to both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. Additionally, conduction blocks such as atrioventricular (AV) blocks can occur as the inflammation affects the conductive pathways in the heart.

The presence of significant ST segment elevation is not exclusive or definitive for myocarditis, as it can indicate other cardiac conditions such as myocardial infarction, thus making it too narrow a view of the possible EKG changes associated with myocarditis. While bradycardia may occur, it is not consistent across all cases and is not a common finding unlike the previously mentioned rhythm abnormalities.

Normal sinus rhythm is also misleading in the context of myocarditis. While some patients may present with a normal sinus rhythm, EKG abnormalities are often present due to the underlying inflammatory process of the myocardium. Thus, the broad range of potential EKG findings—including various rhythm disturbances—supports the choice identifying sinus tachycardia