What does "Torsades de Pointes" appear like on an EKG?

Torsades de Pointes (TdP) is characterized by a specific pattern seen on an EKG, which is best identified as a polymorphic ventricular tachycardia. This arrhythmia is notable for its distinctive appearance of twisting waves, where the amplitude of the QRS complexes varies, leading to a "twisting" pattern around the baseline. The variability in QRS morphology is a hallmark feature of TdP, reflecting the underlying mechanism of early afterdepolarizations typically associated with prolonged QT intervals.

Observing TdP on an EKG, healthcare professionals would see the rapid succession of these varied QRS complexes, marking it as a significant threat because it can lead to more serious arrhythmias or even cardiac arrest if not addressed promptly. Recognizing this pattern is crucial for effective diagnosis and management in clinical settings.

The other options do not accurately depict the EKG characteristics associated with Torsades de Pointes, as they reflect different arrhythmia presentations.