Q wave T wave vector discordance in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: septal hypertrophy and strain pattern.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a common cause of prominent non-infarctional Q waves. A retrospective analysis of previously published cases confirmed a characteristic Q wave T wave vector discordance in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. In 41 of 44 cases with predominant Q waves (as part of QS or Qr complexes where Q wave amplitude exceeded R wave height), the T wave was positive, and in all cases with QS type complexes the T wave was positive. This characteristic electrocardiographic sign probably represents a pattern of septal hypertrophy and strain (Q waves with positive T waves and ST segment elevation) which is the inverse of the classical pattern of left ventricular hypertrophy and strain (tall R waves with inverted T waves and ST segment depression).