OSBORN WAVE Meaning and
Definition
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An Osborn wave is a distinct electrocardiographic finding observed in an electrocardiogram (ECG) that represents a characteristic wave pattern. It is named after American cardiologist John Osborn, who first described it in 1953. Osborn waves are typically seen during hypothermia or in certain metabolic conditions.
On an ECG, an Osborn wave appears as a positive deflection immediately following the QRS complex and preceding the ST segment. The wave is convex upwards and often manifests best in leads V3 to V6, although it may also be visible in other leads. It is typically small, ranging from 0.5 to 3 millimeters in amplitude, and can have variable morphology.
Osborn waves are most commonly encountered in severe hypothermia, where the body temperature drops significantly below normal range. However, they can also occur in other conditions, such as brain injury, ischemic heart disease, drug toxicity, or metabolic abnormalities like hypercalcemia or hypocalcemia.
The presence of Osborn waves in hypothermia is believed to be caused by the effects of low body temperature on the conduction system of the heart. Cold temperatures interfere with the normal repolarization of the ventricles, leading to delayed activation of the epicardial ventricular muscle and resulting in the appearance of these waves.
While the presence of Osborn waves can be an important diagnostic clue for hypothermia, it is essential to consider other clinical factors and symptoms to arrive at an accurate diagnosis as there are various conditions where this wave pattern can occur.
Etymology of OSBORN WAVE
The term "Osborn wave" is named after the American physician Dr. John J. Osborn. Dr. Osborn was a cardiologist who discovered and described this electrocardiographic wave in 1953. The Osborn wave is a characteristic deflection observed in the electrocardiogram (ECG) during hypothermia (abnormally low body temperature).
Hence, the term "Osborn wave" originates from the name of the researcher who first identified and reported this phenomenon.
