Romhilt–Estes Point-Score System: Explanation and Clinical Context
The Romhilt–Estes (R-E) point-score system is a composite electrocardiographic method developed to improve ECG detection of left ventricular hypertrophy by combining six ECG features (P-terminal force in V1, high QRS voltages, ST-T changes consistent with “strain”, left axis deviation, prolonged QRS duration, and delayed intrinsicoid deflection). Each component contributes discrete points; the sum yields a diagnostic category: a total score of 5 or more is considered diagnostic (definite) for LVH, a score of 4 is considered probable, and scores below 4 are less suggestive of LVH. The R-E score was devised to capture structural and repolarisation changes that accompany increased left ventricular mass and remodeling and has been demonstrated to predict clinical outcomes (including mortality) in population studies, although modern imaging modalities (echocardiography, cardiac MRI) remain the gold standard for measuring LV mass. The R-E score remains useful where imaging is not available or as a prognostic ECG marker.
Reference: Romhilt RD, Estes EH Jr. A point-score system for the electrocardiographic diagnosis of left ventricular hypertrophy. (Original formulation and subsequent validations). For contemporary summaries and performance data see reviews and population analyses.
References and supporting sources:
Romhilt–Estes original and evaluative literature and modern reviews provide the exact point allocations and diagnostic cut-offs used in this calculator. See: Romhilt/Estes original descriptions and subsequent analyses and reviews (established summaries and validations).