Atrial Tachycardia
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Atrial Tachycardia
Atrial tachycardia (AT) is an important entity in the differential diagnosis of narrow complex tachycardia. It is defined as an arrhythmia that originates in atrial tissue that does not encompass the sinus node. Although nonsustained asymptomatic episodes are frequently seen in routine Holter recordings, the prevalence of this arrhythmia is approximately 5% to 15% in patients referred for routine invasive electrophysiologic evaluation. ATs are regular atrial rhythms at a constant rate of 100 beats/min or greater that originate in the atrium and do not require participation of the atrioventricular node (AVN) for maintenance. ATs constitute an important cause of supraventricular tachycardia.…
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Focal Atrial Tachycardia (FAT)
The term FAT is commonly used synonymously with atrial tachycardia, a broader term referring to any form of SVT originating within the atria but outside of the sinus node. FAT, atrial flutter and multifocal atrial tachycardia (MAT) are all forms of atrial tachycardia.
Multifocal Atrial Tachycardia (MAT)
A rapid, irregular atrial rhythm arising from multiple ectopic foci within the atria. Most commonly seen in patients with severe COPD or congestive heart failure. It is typically a transitional rhythm between frequent premature atrial complexes (PACs) and atrial flutter / fibrillation.
Atrial Fibrillation, Atrial Tachycardia: What’s the Difference?
Despite an irregularly irregular rhythm, the patient in our case suffers from a focal atrial tachycardia. Focal atrial tachycardia as the sole mechanism for supraventricular tachycardia is relatively rare accounting for 10-15% of cases referred for catheter ablation.
Challenges in diagnosing and managing multifocal atrial tachycardia
Multifocal atrial tachycardia (MAT) can be difficult to correctly diagnose and is often misinterpreted as atrial fibrillation. This case report highlights the importance of accurate diagnosis, as management vastly differs and has significant implications.
Common Types of Supraventricular Tachycardia: Diagnosis and Management
The third most common type of SVT is AT (approximately 10 percent); it originates from a single atrial focus. This SVT, if focal, usually has a definitive localized origin, such as adjacent to the crista terminalis in the right atrium or the ostia of the pulmonary veins in the left atrium. Another form, multifocal AT, often occurs in patients with heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Atrial Tachycardia
Atrial arrhythmias frequently complicate heart failure and atrial enlargement. The autonomic nervous system likely plays a critical role in initiating or triggering some ATs. ,
Cardiology Advisor
Of all PSVTs, atrial tachycardia is the least common, accounting for approximately 1 in 10 cases. Among patients referred for supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) ablation, focal atrial tachycardia (FAT) is present in 3% to 17%.
StatPearls
Atrial tachycardia tends to occur in individuals with structural heart disease, with or without heart failure, and ischemic coronary artery disease. However, focal atrial tachycardia often occurs in healthy individuals without structural heart disease.
Washington Heart Rhythm Associates
Atrial tachycardia, as an isolated rhythm disturbance, is not considered a life-threatening condition. Some patients are able to control their episodes with life-style modification. This includes avoidance of caffeinated beverages, alcohol, sleep-deprivation, stressful situations, and anxiety. Spontaneous resolution of symptomatic episodes is uncommon. Prolonged episodes (typically man months or years) of continuous atrial tachycardia can be problematic. Atrial tachycardia can cause irreversible changes to the atria, including negative remodeling with atrial enlargement and weakness (myopathy).
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