Characteristics of the Unipolar Precordial Electrocardiogram in Normal Infants

Abstract

The electrocardiogram should have as much clinical value in infants and children as in adults. Such value, as in adults, must depend upon an accurate knowledge of normal standards which change progressively during infancy and early childhood. Some of the more important measurements in the precordial leads of normal infants are presented and discussed. These measurements, the amplitude and the time of inscription of the intrinsic deflection, are believed to indicate the changing relationship between the mass of the right and left ventricles, and on the basis of these data it is also believed that an earlier and more accurate diagnosis of ventricular hypertrophy can be made at any age.