Description: Junctional ectopic tachycardia is a type of tachycardia that originates from an ectopic focus at the junction, specifically at the site where the atria and ventricles of the heart meet. This condition is characterized by an accelerated heart rhythm, which can vary between 100 and 180 beats per minute. Unlike supraventricular tachycardia, which originates in the atria, junctional ectopic tachycardia occurs in the atrioventricular node or nearby conduction pathways. This tachycardia can be paroxysmal, meaning it can appear and disappear suddenly, or it can be persistent. Patients may experience symptoms such as palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, or, in more severe cases, syncope. Identifying this arrhythmia is crucial, as it can be an indicator of underlying issues in the heart’s electrical system. Diagnosis is made through an electrocardiogram (ECG), which shows a characteristic pattern of inverted or absent P waves, along with a narrow QRS complex. Junctional ectopic tachycardia is more common in young patients and may be associated with conditions such as structural heart disease, the use of certain medications, or stimulant consumption. Management may include vagal maneuvers, antiarrhythmic medications, or, in more severe cases, catheter ablation of the ectopic focus.
