supraventrikuläre

Supraventrikulär is a term used in cardiology to describe structures or events that originate above the ventricles of the heart. The ventricles are the lower chambers, so supraventricular refers to impulses or rhythms arising from the atria or from the conducting system above the ventricles, such as the atrioventricular (AV) node. This contrasts with ventricular, which refers to conditions arising in the ventricles.

In clinical use, supraventricular encompasses a range of rhythms and disorders. Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a rapid heart rate that begins above the ventricles and is one of the most common supraventricular arrhythmias. Other examples include atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, atrial tachycardia, and AV nodal reentrant tachycardia. Some conditions involve accessory pathways that enable rapid conduction from atria to ventricles, as seen in preexcitation syndromes.

Diagnosis typically relies on electrocardiography, with additional monitoring such as Holter or event records if episodes are infrequent. Evaluation also aims to identify structural heart disease, ischemia, or electrolyte disturbances. Symptoms range from palpitations and dizziness to shortness of breath, and some cases are asymptomatic.

Treatment depends on the specific rhythm and patient factors. Acute management may employ vagal maneuvers, adenosine, or rate-controlling drugs like beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers. Long-term options include antiarrhythmic medications or catheter ablation for select supraventricular arrhythmias. Supraventricular conditions often respond well to targeted therapy, though management is tailored to individual risk and comorbidity.