Comprehensive analysis of clinical features, electrocardiogram, and imaging in de Winter syndrome - Report - MDSpire

Comprehensive analysis of clinical features, electrocardiogram, and imaging in de Winter syndrome

  • By

  • Miao Wang

  • Bao Chen

  • Lili Zhang

  • Wang Liao

  • Yingmei Chen

  • June 5, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: In-depth Examination of Clinical Characteristics, ECG Findings, and Imaging Modalities in de Winter Syndrome

Overview

This study examines the clinical characteristics, ECG findings, and imaging features of de Winter syndrome in 105 patients. It highlights the importance of recognizing the de Winter pattern in ECGs to facilitate timely intervention and reduce mortality.

Background

De Winter syndrome is a rare ECG pattern associated with acute coronary occlusion, often misdiagnosed due to the absence of classic ST-segment elevation. Early recognition is crucial for timely reperfusion therapy, which can significantly impact patient outcomes. This study consolidates existing knowledge to enhance understanding and recognition of this syndrome among clinicians.

Data Highlights

CharacteristicValue
Median Age53.7 ± 13.9 years
Male Patients98 (93.3%)
Smoking51 (48.5%)
Hypertension32 (30.5%)
Chest Pain103 (98.0%)
Coronary Angiography - LAD Lesions88 (84.6%)
Major Complications28 (32.6%)

Key Findings

  • The cohort had a median age of 53.7 years, predominantly male (93.3%).
  • Chest pain was the primary symptom in 98% of patients.
  • The de Winter pattern was most frequently observed in leads V4 (91.4%) and V3 (90.5%).
  • Dynamic ECG changes were noted, with 22.9% progressing to STEMI.
  • Coronary angiography revealed single-vessel disease in 64.4% of cases, primarily affecting the LAD artery.
  • Major complications occurred in 32.6% of hospitalized patients, with acute heart failure being the most common.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for de Winter syndrome in middle-aged male patients presenting with chest pain and risk factors like smoking and hypertension. Prompt recognition of the de Winter ECG pattern can facilitate timely intervention and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion

Recognizing the de Winter syndrome as a STEMI-equivalent is essential for timely diagnosis and intervention. Improved awareness among healthcare professionals can lead to better management of patients with this condition.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Clinical Research in Cardiology, 2025 -- 2025 Guideline for Acute Coronary Syndromes
  2. Clinical Research in Cardiology, 2009 -- Imaging Techniques for Non-Invasive Diagnosis of Acute Viral Myocarditis
  3. Clinical Research in Cardiology, 2020 -- Echocardiographic Features in Patients Infected with SARS-CoV-2
  4. Clinical Research in Cardiology, 2023 -- CT Imaging Substrate Visualization for VT Ablation: Outcomes from a Large Study of Ischemic and Non-Ischemic Cardiomyopathy Patients
  5. Phenomenon of “de Winter” pattern, sign, or syndrome: A systematic scoping review and data analysis - PMC
  6. Clinical Research in Cardiology — Blinded Prospective Assessment of Smartphone ECG Technology for Distinguishing Supraventricular Tachycardia from Inappropriate Sinus Tachycardia
  7. 2025 Guideline for Acute Coronary Syndromes - Professional Heart Daily | American Heart Association
  8. Phenomenon of “de Winter” pattern, sign, or syndrome: A systematic scoping review and data analysis - PMC
  9. Annals of Noninvasive Electrocardiology

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