supraventrikuláris

Supraventrikuláris is a medical term referring to heart rhythms or conduction disturbances that originate above the ventricles, usually in the atria or the atrioventricular node. It is used to distinguish these rhythms from ventricular arrhythmias, which arise below the ventricles.

The most common supraventricular condition is supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), a rapid heart rate with a narrow QRS complex. SVTs can be paroxysmal or persistent and may cause palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort. Other supraventricular conditions include atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, atrial tachycardia, and the various forms of AV nodal or AV reentrant tachycardias.

Diagnosis relies on electrocardiography to characterize the rhythm, with ambulatory ECG monitoring and echocardiography used to assess rhythm patterns and underlying structural heart disease. Distinguishing supraventricular from ventricular rhythms is important for appropriate management and prognosis.

Treatment varies by condition and symptoms. For acute, symptomatic SVT, vagal maneuvers are often attempted first, with adenosine useful for termination of many reentrant SVTs. Long-term management may involve beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, and other antiarrhythmic medications. Catheter ablation is a common and effective curative option for many SVTs. Atrial fibrillation or flutter requires a multifaceted approach including rate control, rhythm control strategies, and stroke prevention with anticoagulation when indicated.

Prognosis depends on the specific arrhythmia and comorbidities. Supraventricular tachyarrhythmias are generally manageable with treatment, while atrial fibrillation carries a higher risk of stroke, especially in older individuals or those with additional risk factors.