User:Mr. Ibrahem/Premature atrial contraction
| Premature atrial contraction | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Supraventricular extra systole (SVES), atrial premature complexes (APC), atrial premature beats (APB)[1] |
 | |
| Two PACs as seen on a rhythm strip | |
| Specialty | Cardiology |
| Symptoms | None, feeling of skipped beat[2] |
| Causes | Unclear, coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy[1] |
| Risk factors | Beta blockers, digoxin, alcohol, pregnancy[1] |
| Diagnostic method | Electrocardiogram (ECG)[1] |
| Differential diagnosis | Premature junctional contractions, premature ventricular contractions, panic attacks |
| Treatment | Reassurance, beta blockers[1] |
| Prognosis | Generally not serious[1] |
| Frequency | Common[1] |
Premature atrial contractions (PACs) are early extra beats that arise from the atria of the heart but not the sinoatrial node.[1] They often result in no symptoms but may be felt as a "skipped beat" in the chest.[2] Other symptoms may include anxiety or shortness of breath.[1] The condition is generally not serious, though frequent PACs are a risk factor for atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter.[1]
Often the cause is unclear, though they may occur as a result of coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.[1] Risk factors include taking beta blockers or digoxin, alcohol, and pregnancy.[1] Diagnosis is generally by electrocardiogram (ECG), which shows an early but normal QRS complex.[1] In those with frequent PACs an ultrasound of the heart is recommended.[1]
In most cases, no treatment other than reassurance and avoiding triggers is needed.[2] In those who are bothered by the symptoms, beta blockers may be used.[1] Occasionally catheter ablation may be carried out.[1] PACs are common in all age groups.[1]