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STEMI mimics

An ECG & Rhythm Interpretation term on the RCES exam blueprint, defined for cath lab and EP clinicians.

Pericarditis typically shows diffuse, concave ST elevation across multiple territories without reciprocal depression, often with PR depression; left bundle branch block alters baseline QRS/ST morphology enough that standard STEMI criteria do not reliably apply, requiring modified criteria (e.g., Sgarbossa criteria) in the appropriate clinical context; early repolarization shows a stable, often high-take-off ST elevation pattern, typically in younger patients, without the dynamic evolution seen in true infarction.

Domain: ECG & Rhythm Interpretation · Blueprint: RCES exam guide

Related RCES terms

WPW / pre-excitation Heart blocks Wide-complex tachycardia differentiation Atrial fibrillation and flutter

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Written and reviewed by John-Philip (JP) Maarschalk, BSN, RN, CNML — a nurse manager who runs operations for the cardiac cath lab, electrophysiology, and interventional service lines at an academic health system in North Carolina. He hires and develops the staff who sit for these exams. More about JP and how this content is made →
Cardiac Codex is an independent study tool published by MdoubleA LLC, not affiliated with or endorsed by CCI or any certifying body. This glossary entry is exam-preparation information, not medical advice or a substitute for clinical judgment. Always verify current clinical practice against primary sources and institutional protocol.