Brainscape's Knowledge GenomeTM


Top Flashcards (Certified)
All Flashcards

Cardiology > Cardiology- Rhythm disorders > Flashcards

Cardiology- Rhythm disorders Flashcards

(99 cards)

Start Studying
1
Q

What are rhythm disorders?

A

Rhythm disorders, or arrhythmias, are abnormal heartbeats due to issues in the heart’s electrical conduction system.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

What are the common types of arrhythmias?

A

Common types include atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and bradycardia.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

What is atrial fibrillation?

A

Atrial fibrillation is a rapid and irregular heartbeat originating from the atria, increasing the risk of stroke and heart failure.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

What causes atrial fibrillation?

A

Causes include hypertension, heart valve disease, heart failure, coronary artery disease, and hyperthyroidism.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

What are the symptoms of atrial fibrillation?

A

Symptoms may include palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, and chest pain.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

How is atrial flutter different from atrial fibrillation?

A

Atrial flutter is characterized by a more organized electrical activity in the atria, often presenting a regular rhythm, while atrial fibrillation is irregular.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

What is ventricular tachycardia?

A

Ventricular tachycardia is a fast heart rhythm originating from the ventricles, which can be life-threatening.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

What are the causes of ventricular tachycardia?

A

Causes include ischemic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, electrolyte imbalances, and certain medications.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

What is ventricular fibrillation?

A

Ventricular fibrillation is a chaotic heart rhythm that results in the heart’s inability to pump blood effectively, leading to cardiac arrest.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

What is bradycardia?

A

Bradycardia is defined as a slower-than-normal heart rate, typically below 60 beats per minute.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

What are common symptoms of bradycardia?

A

Symptoms may include fatigue, dizziness, fainting, and shortness of breath.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

How is bradycardia treated?

A

Treatment may include medications, lifestyle changes, or the implantation of a pacemaker.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

What is the role of an electrocardiogram (ECG) in diagnosing arrhythmias?

A

An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and helps identify the type and cause of the arrhythmia.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

What are the potential complications of untreated atrial fibrillation?

A

Complications include stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular problems.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

How can arrhythmias be managed?

A

Management options include medications, lifestyle changes, catheter ablation, or surgery.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

What medications are commonly used to treat arrhythmias?

A

Common medications include antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone), beta-blockers, and anticoagulants.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

What is catheter ablation?

A

Catheter ablation is a procedure that destroys the tissue causing abnormal electrical signals in the heart.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

What is the significance of the QT interval on an ECG?

A

The QT interval represents the time it takes for the heart to repolarize after each heartbeat; prolonged QT can lead to torsades de pointes

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

What are the causes of prolonged QT syndrome?

A

Causes include congenital disorders, certain medications, and electrolyte imbalances.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

What is the relationship between sleep apnea and arrhythmias?

A

Sleep apnea can lead to intermittent hypoxia, which increases the risk of developing atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

How does hyperthyroidism affect heart rhythm?

A

Hyperthyroidism can increase heart rate and lead to arrhythmias, particularly atrial fibrillation.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

What is the difference between paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation?

A

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation occurs intermittently and resolves on its own, while persistent atrial fibrillation lasts longer and may require treatment to restore normal rhythm.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

How can exercise impact arrhythmias?

A

Regular exercise can improve heart health, but excessive or unmonitored exercise may trigger arrhythmias in susceptible individuals.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

What is a Holter monitor?

A

A Holter monitor is a portable ECG device worn for 24-48 hours to continuously record the heart’s electrical activity.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
What are the common signs of an impending cardiac event?
Signs include chest pain, shortness of breath, severe fatigue, dizziness, and palpitations.
26
A 60 year old man previously well, presents with an acute onset of palpitations and syncope to the emergency room. On examination, his heart rate is 136bpm. BP 90/50mmHg. He is not in congestive heart failure. His ECG is shown.
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) Remember a wide complex tachycardia is VT in about 80-90% of cases i.e. VT must be the default diagnosis in anyone with a wide-complex tachycardia
26
What is Right Bundle Branch Block (RBBB)?
RBBB is a condition where the electrical impulses are delayed or blocked in the right bundle branch of the heart's conduction system.
27
What are the common causes of RBBB?
Causes include ischemic heart disease, hypertension, pulmonary embolism, and congenital heart defects.
27
How is RBBB diagnosed?
RBBB is diagnosed using an electrocardiogram (ECG) that shows the characteristic patterns of the blockage.
28
What are the potential complications of RBBB?
While RBBB itself is often benign, it can be associated with other cardiac conditions and may increase the risk of arrhythmias.
28
How does RBBB affect cardiac function?
RBBB can lead to a slight delay in the contraction of the right ventricle but typically does not significantly affect overall cardiac function.
28
What are the typical ECG findings in RBBB?
ECG shows a QRS duration greater than 120 ms, an rSR' pattern in lead V1, and a wide S wave in leads I and V6.
28
What symptoms may be associated with RBBB?
Symptoms can include palpitations, dizziness, and syncope, although many individuals are asymptomatic.
29
What is the treatment for RBBB?
Treatment is usually not required unless there are underlying heart conditions; monitoring may be sufficient.
30
How can RBBB be differentiated from LBBB on an ECG?
RBBB typically shows an rSR' pattern in V1, while LBBB shows a broad, notched QRS complex in leads I, V5, and V6.
31
What is the significance of RBBB in young athletes?
RBBB is common in young athletes and often does not indicate underlying heart disease, but further evaluation may be needed if symptoms are present.
32
What is Left Bundle Branch Block (LBBB)?
LBBB is a condition where the electrical impulses are delayed or blocked in the left bundle branch of the heart's conduction system.
33
What are the common causes of LBBB?
Causes include ischemic heart disease, hypertension, cardiomyopathy, and aortic stenosis.
34
What are the typical ECG findings in LBBB?
ECG shows a QRS duration greater than 120 ms, a broad, notched R wave in leads I, V5, and V6, and deep S waves in V1.
35
What symptoms may be associated with LBBB?
Symptoms may include shortness of breath, fatigue, and palpitations, and it can be associated with heart failure.
36
How is LBBB diagnosed?
LBBB is diagnosed through an electrocardiogram (ECG) showing the characteristic patterns of the blockage.
37
What are the potential complications of LBBB?
LBBB can indicate underlying heart disease and is associated with a higher risk of heart failure and sudden cardiac death.
38
How does LBBB affect cardiac function?
LBBB can lead to a delay in left ventricular contraction, potentially impairing overall cardiac function and leading to heart failure.
39
What is the treatment for LBBB?
Treatment focuses on managing underlying conditions; if symptomatic or related to heart failure, further interventions may be needed, including pacing.
40
How can LBBB be differentiated from RBBB on an ECG?
LBBB shows broad, notched QRS complexes in leads I, V5, and V6, while RBBB shows an rSR' pattern in lead V1.
41
What is the significance of LBBB in the context of acute myocardial infarction?
LBBB can mask signs of acute myocardial infarction on an ECG, making diagnosis challenging and requiring further evaluation.
42
What is the differential diagnosis of a wide-complex regular tachycardia?
Ventricular Tachycardia Supraventricular tachycardia with BBB Pre-excited tachycardia over an accessory pathway (Antidromic AVRT) Ventricular paced rhythm
43
What is Ventricular Tachycardia (VT)?
VT is a rapid heart rhythm originating from the ventricles, typically defined as three or more consecutive ventricular beats at a rate exceeding 100 beats per minute.
44
What are the ECG characteristics of Ventricular Tachycardia?
VT shows a wide QRS complex (greater than 120 ms), a regular rhythm, and can appear as monomorphic or polymorphic patterns.
45
What are common causes of Ventricular Tachycardia?
Common causes include ischemic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, electrolyte imbalances, and previous myocardial infarction.
46
What symptoms may be associated with Ventricular Tachycardia?
Symptoms can include palpitations, dizziness, chest pain, and syncope. It can lead to more severe outcomes like ventricular fibrillation.
47
How is Ventricular Tachycardia managed?
Management may include antiarrhythmic medications, electrical cardioversion, and potentially the implantation of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD).
48
What is Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) with Bundle Branch Block?
This condition involves a rapid heart rate originating above the ventricles, with an accompanying bundle branch block affecting QRS morphology.
49
What are the ECG characteristics of SVT with BBB?
The ECG shows a wide QRS complex (greater than 120 ms) that can resemble VT, but the rate is usually less than 150 beats per minute, and there is a narrow initial R wave in lead V1.
50
What are potential causes of SVT with BBB?
Causes include atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and other reentrant circuits, often occurring in patients with pre-existing conduction abnormalities.
51
What symptoms may be associated with SVT with BBB?
Symptoms often include palpitations, lightheadedness, and sometimes syncope, depending on the heart rate and patient tolerance.
52
How is SVT with BBB diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made through ECG analysis and possibly electrophysiological studies to confirm the reentrant nature of the tachycardia.
53
What is pre-excited tachycardia over an accessory pathway (Antidromic AVRT)?
This condition occurs when an electrical impulse travels down an accessory pathway to the ventricles, leading to a wide-complex tachycardia.
54
What are the ECG characteristics of Antidromic AVRT?
The ECG displays a wide QRS complex with a regular rhythm, typically associated with a short PR interval and delta wave if atrial activation is also present.
55
What are common causes of Antidromic AVRT?
It can occur in patients with Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome or other forms of atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia.
56
What symptoms may be associated with Antidromic AVRT?
Symptoms can include palpitations, chest discomfort, and syncope, similar to other tachycardias.
57
How is Antidromic AVRT managed?
Management may include vagal maneuvers, antiarrhythmic drugs, or catheter ablation to eliminate the accessory pathway.
58
What is Ventricular Paced Rhythm?
This rhythm occurs when a ventricular pacemaker delivers electrical impulses to the ventricles, resulting in a wide QRS complex.
59
What are the ECG characteristics of Ventricular Paced Rhythm?
The ECG shows a wide QRS complex with a regular rhythm, often with a specific morphology reflecting the pacemaker's lead position.
60
What are common causes of Ventricular Paced Rhythm?
It commonly occurs in patients with a history of bradyarrhythmias or heart block requiring permanent pacemaker implantation.
61
What symptoms may be associated with Ventricular Paced Rhythm?
Patients may experience symptoms related to the underlying heart condition, but the paced rhythm itself is often asymptomatic.
62
How is Ventricular Paced Rhythm diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made by identifying pacing spikes on an ECG, followed by analysis of the associated QRS complex morphology.
63
What is the differential diagnosis of a narrow-complex regular tachycardia?
Sinus tachycardia Atrial flutter AVJRT (AVNRT, AVRT) Atrial tachycardia Junctional ectopic tachycardia Note: all the above can cause a wide complex tachycardia if there is BBB
64
What is Sinus Tachycardia?
Sinus tachycardia is a normal physiological increase in heart rate originating from the sinoatrial (SA) node, typically exceeding 100 beats per minute.
65
What are the ECG characteristics of Sinus Tachycardia?
The ECG shows a regular rhythm with a narrow QRS complex (less than 120 ms), a consistent P wave before each QRS, and a heart rate greater than 100 bpm.
66
What are common causes of Sinus Tachycardia?
Causes include exercise, anxiety, fever, anemia, hyperthyroidism, and dehydration.
67
What symptoms may be associated with Sinus Tachycardia?
Symptoms can include palpitations, dizziness, and shortness of breath, especially in cases of underlying pathology.
68
How is Sinus Tachycardia managed?
Management focuses on treating the underlying cause, such as hydration or treating hyperthyroidism.
69
What is Atrial Flutter?
Atrial flutter is a reentrant tachycardia originating in the atria, characterized by a rapid atrial rate typically around 240-340 beats per minute.
70
What are the ECG characteristics of Atrial Flutter?
The ECG displays a "sawtooth" pattern of flutter waves (F-waves), commonly seen in leads II, III, and aVF, with a regular QRS complex if the ventricular response is regular.
71
What are common causes of Atrial Flutter?
Causes include atrial enlargement, chronic lung disease, and ischemic heart disease.
72
What symptoms may be associated with Atrial Flutter?
Symptoms can include palpitations, fatigue, and lightheadedness, and it may lead to hemodynamic instability.
73
How is Atrial Flutter managed?
Management may include rate control with beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, anticoagulation, and possible cardioversion.
74
What is AV Junctional Reentrant Tachycardia (AVJRT)?
AVJRT is a type of paroxysmal tachycardia that involves reentrant circuits in the atrioventricular (AV) junction, leading to a rapid heart rate.
75
What are the two main types of AVJRT?
The two main types are Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia (AVNRT) and Atrioventricular Reentrant Tachycardia (AVRT).
76
What are the ECG characteristics of AVJRT?
The ECG shows a narrow QRS complex with a regular rhythm and a heart rate typically between 150-250 bpm. In AVNRT, P waves may be buried in the QRS or occur after it.
77
What are common causes of AVJRT?
Causes include congenital accessory pathways, enhanced automaticity, or structural heart disease.
78
How is AVJRT managed?
Management can involve vagal maneuvers, antiarrhythmic drugs, or catheter ablation for persistent cases.
79
What is Atrial Tachycardia?
Atrial tachycardia is a rapid heart rhythm that originates from ectopic foci in the atria, characterized by an atrial rate typically between 100-250 bpm.
80
What are the ECG characteristics of Atrial Tachycardia?
The ECG shows a narrow QRS complex, a regular rhythm, and distinct P waves that may have varying morphology from sinus P waves.
81
What are common causes of Atrial Tachycardia?
Causes include myocardial ischemia, cardiomyopathy, and structural heart abnormalities.
82
What symptoms may be associated with Atrial Tachycardia?
Symptoms can include palpitations, dyspnea, and fatigue.
83
How is Atrial Tachycardia managed?
Management may include rate control, antiarrhythmic medications, or catheter ablation for recurrent episodes.
84
What is Junctional Ectopic Tachycardia?
Junctional ectopic tachycardia is a tachycardia originating from the AV junction, often seen in pediatric populations
85
What are the ECG characteristics of Junctional Ectopic Tachycardia?
The ECG shows a narrow QRS complex with a regular rhythm and may present without distinct P waves or inverted P waves occurring after the QRS
86
What are common causes of Junctional Ectopic Tachycardia?
Causes can include postoperative states (especially after cardiac surgery), increased vagal tone, or structural heart disease.
87
What symptoms may be associated with Junctional Ectopic Tachycardia?
Symptoms can include palpitations, fatigue, and sometimes heart failure in severe cases.
88
How is Junctional Ectopic Tachycardia managed?
Management can involve pharmacological therapy such as beta-blockers, or in persistent cases, catheter ablation may be considered.
89
Narrow Regular Tachyarrhythmias
Sinus tachycardia Atrial flutter AVJRT (AVNRT, AVRT) Atrial tachycardia Junctional ectopic tachycardia
90
Wide Regular Tachyarrhythmias
VT SVT with BBB Paced rhythm Preexcited SVT
91
Narrow Irregular Tachyarrhythmias
Atrial Fibrillation Atrial flutter/tachy + variable AVB Multifocal atrial tachycardia
92
Wide Irregular Tachyarrhythmias
AF with BBB A flutter, variable AVB + BBB Preexcited AF Polymorphic VT
93
What is the first step in managing wide-complex tachycardia in the emergency room?
he first step is to perform an ECG to accurately document the rhythm and confirm the diagnosis.
94

Cardiology (4 decks)

Brainscape helps you reach your goals faster, through stronger study habits.
© 2025 Bold Learning Solutions. Terms and Conditions