Seattle criteria
Refined ECG interpretation standards for athlete screening that reduce false-positive rates while maintaining sensitivity for detecting cardiac abnormalities.
Full Definition
The Seattle criteria represent an evidence-based refinement of electrocardiographic interpretation specifically designed for athletic populations. Developed to address the high false-positive rates associated with earlier screening approaches, these criteria distinguish between physiological adaptations to training (considered normal variants in athletes) and potentially pathological findings requiring further evaluation. The criteria provide specific parameters for T-wave inversions, ST-segment changes, Q-waves, and other ECG abnormalities, taking into account the athlete's demographic characteristics including age, sex, and ethnicity. Implementation of the Seattle criteria has significantly improved the specificity of ECG screening while maintaining sensitivity for detecting conditions associated with sudden cardiac death.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize 'Seattle' as it refers to the geographic origin of the criteria development.
In Context
- "The ECG was interpreted using Seattle criteria, revealing findings consistent with physiological cardiac adaptation rather than pathology." — Preparticipation examination report
- "Application of Seattle criteria reduced the false-positive rate in our athletic screening program by 42%." — Sports medicine program evaluation