CVS Practice Test

What is an effect of the left anterior descending artery involvement observed on EKG?

1. Inferior wall ischemia

2. Anterior wall ischemia

3. Lateral wall ischemia

4. Posterior wall ischemia

The correct answer is: Anterior wall ischemia

The involvement of the left anterior descending artery, often referred to as the LAD artery, is primarily associated with anterior wall ischemia on an electrocardiogram (EKG). This artery supplies blood to the anterior wall of the left ventricle, and when it becomes occluded or narrowed, the supply of oxygenated blood to this area is compromised, leading to ischemia. On the EKG, this condition typically presents with changes such as ST-segment elevation or Q waves in the precordial leads (V1 through V6) and possibly in the limb leads that correspond to the anterior wall. Therefore, recognizing these EKG changes is crucial in diagnosing myocardial infarction or ischemia caused by LAD artery involvement. The other areas referenced in the answer choices are typically associated with different coronary arteries. For instance, the inferior wall ischemia is associated with the right coronary artery; lateral wall ischemia is linked to the circumflex artery; and posterior wall ischemia often involves branches from the right coronary artery supplying the posterior descending artery. Understanding the specific territories affected by coronary artery lesions helps clinicians accurately diagnose and treat cardiac conditions.