Question

Osborn J waves are seen in-

• A. Hypothermia
• B. Hyperkalemia
• C. Hypocalcemia
• D. Hypokalemia

Hint:

Think of the ECG hump at the J point that appears when a patient is very cold.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: The Osborn wave (J wave) is a positive deflection seen at the junction of the QRS complex and the ST segment (the J point) on the ECG. Step 2: Its classic and most characteristic cause is hypothermia, especially when the core body temperature falls below 32°C (90°F). The wave amplitude tends to increase as the temperature drops further. Step 3: So option (a) Hypothermia is correct. Step 4: The distractors are electrolyte disorders that produce different ECG patterns - hyperkalemia gives tall peaked T waves, hypokalemia gives U waves and flattened T waves, and hypocalcemia prolongs the QT interval. None of these classically produce a J wave.