What are the causes of right axis deviation?

As a medical professional with expertise in cardiology, I can provide you with a detailed explanation of the causes of right axis deviation (RAD) on an electrocardiogram (ECG). Right axis deviation refers to a condition where the mean electrical axis of the heart's electrical activity is directed towards the right side of the chest, which is an abnormal finding in adults. Causes of Right Axis Deviation: 1. **Normal Finding in Children and Tall Thin Adults**: RAD can be a normal variant in certain populations, such as children and adults with a tall, thin body habitus. 2. Right Ventricular Hypertrophy (RVH): An increase in the size of the right ventricle can lead to RAD, often due to conditions that increase the workload on the right side of the heart, such as pulmonary hypertension. 3. Chronic Lung Disease: Even without pulmonary hypertension, chronic lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can cause RAD. 4. Anterolateral Myocardial Infarction (MI): A heart attack that affects the anterolateral wall of the heart can result in RAD due to the damage to the heart muscle. 5. Left Posterior Hemiblock (LPHB): This is a conduction delay in the electrical conduction system of the heart, which can present with RAD. 6. Pulmonary Embolus (PE): A blockage in the pulmonary arteries can lead to RAD, as the increased pressure in the right side of the heart can alter the electrical axis. 7. Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome: A condition characterized by an abnormal electrical pathway in the heart, which can sometimes present with RAD, particularly when the accessory pathway is on the left side. 8. Other Conditions: There are other less common causes of RAD, including congenital heart diseases, pericarditis, and certain types of cardiomyopathies. It's important to note that the presence of RAD on an ECG should be interpreted in the context of the patient's symptoms, medical history, and other diagnostic findings. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider is necessary to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

causes of right axis deviationnormal finding in children and tall thin adults.right ventricular hypertrophy.chronic lung disease even without pulmonary hypertension.anterolateral myocardial infarction.left posterior hemiblock.pulmonary embolus.Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome - left sided accessory pathway.More items...