Premature atrial contraction overview: Difference between revisions
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Premature atrial contraction patients will demonstrate either premature pulse waves or pauses upon palpation of their [[pulse|peripheral pulse]]. | Premature atrial contraction patients will demonstrate either premature pulse waves or pauses upon palpation of their [[pulse|peripheral pulse]]. | ||
===Laboratory Findings=== | |||
Many cases of premature atrial contraction have no definite cause, it may be the result of various other problems. If [[PAC]] patients present with symptoms, a generalized approach is done to find the precipitating factors. | |||
Revision as of 18:43, 12 August 2013
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Mugilan Poongkunran M.B.B.S [2]
Overview
Premature atrial contractions(PACs) also known as atrial premature complex (APC), premature atrial beat or atrial premature beat (APB) is a benign type of premature heart beat which originates in one of the upper two chambers of the heart (the atria). PACs are to be distinguished from premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) that originate in one of the lower pumping chambers (the ventricles). PACs occur frequently in subjects with normal heart, however patients with structural heart disease and coronary heart disease are at increased risk.
Pathophysiology
Mechanisms responsible for spontaneous premature atrial contraction are not clear but reentry within the atrium is the most probable mechanism.
Causes
Premature atrial contraction occur frequently in subjects with normal heart, however patients with structural heart disease and coronary heart disease are at increased risk. Alcohol and coffee are considered potential precipitants of PACs. They may also be more common in other medical conditions such as chronic renal failure and chronic pulmonary disease.
Epidemiology and Demographics
Premature atrial contraction (PAC) can occur at any age and they should not be always considered as an abnormal finding. The prevalence depends on the technique used for evaluation and the presence of heart disease.
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Premature atrial contraction (PAC) is a common form of supraventricular arrhythmias and mostly the prognosis is good. In rare cases, severe symptoms other than palpitation may occur.
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Most patients with premature atrial contraction are asymptomatic. Rarely they present with palpitation and complications.
Physical Examination
Premature atrial contraction patients will demonstrate either premature pulse waves or pauses upon palpation of their peripheral pulse.
Laboratory Findings
Many cases of premature atrial contraction have no definite cause, it may be the result of various other problems. If PAC patients present with symptoms, a generalized approach is done to find the precipitating factors.