Electrocardiological features in obesity: The benefits of body surface potential mapping

Abstract

Background: Various ECG abnormalities are commonly observed in obesity and in metabolic syndrome. Summary: Some of these abnormalities are caused by the pushed-up position of the diaphragm due to obesity and others occur as a result of the complications of the condition. The position of the R wave may change, various arrhythmias may develop or the QT interval may be prolonged, which increases the tendency to malignant arrhythmias. In obesity, the ECG signs of ventricular hypertrophy are less informative due to the accumulation of epicardial and subcutaneous adipose tissue. In general, it can be concluded that a microcirculation disorder is present in metabolic syndrome that may primarily be associated with ST-T wave abnormalities. Key Messages: Body surface potential mapping is a more sensitive method than traditional ECG with potentially greater use for diagnosis mainly in the early phase of non-ST elevation myocardial infarctions. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel.