Crochetage sign-An invaluable independent ECG sign in detecting ASD

Abstract

Bedside diagnosis of congenital heart disease is sometimes very difficult in patient presenting with respiratory distress in intensive care unit. However, an ECG can provide abundant information regarding its presence and its management. A 25-year-old female presented with sudden onset of respiratory difficulty and shortness of breath, following delivery one day back. Echocardiography could not be done as a poor echo window was obtained and patient could not lie down supine. However, ECG revealed right axis deviation, RBBB, and notching in the apex of the R wave in inferior leads 2,3,aVF(crochetage sign). This is directed to the presence of ASD, which was confirmed with echocardiography after stabilization of patient. We would like to illustrate the importance of simple bedside ECG finding of crochetage sign in the diagnosis of ASD when echocardiography is not possible or available in underdeveloped countries.