Sinoatrial block
Sinoatrial Block
Sinoatrial block (pronounced: si-no-ay-tree-al block), also known as SA block, is a type of heart block that occurs in the sinoatrial node (SA node), the natural pacemaker of the heart.
Etymology
The term "sinoatrial block" is derived from the Latin words "sinus", meaning "bay" or "pocket", and "atrium", meaning "entrance hall". This refers to the location of the SA node in the right atrium of the heart. The term "block" is used to describe the interruption or delay in the electrical signals that regulate the heart's rhythm.
Types of Sinoatrial Block
There are three types of sinoatrial block:
- First-degree sinoatrial block: This is a delay in conduction between the SA node and the atria. It is usually asymptomatic and is often discovered incidentally during an electrocardiogram (ECG).
- Second-degree sinoatrial block: This is characterized by intermittent failure of conduction between the SA node and the atria. It can be further classified into Type I (Wenckebach) and Type II.
- Third-degree sinoatrial block: Also known as sinoatrial exit block, this is a complete failure of conduction between the SA node and the atria. It can lead to a condition known as sinus arrest.
Symptoms
Symptoms of sinoatrial block can vary depending on the degree of the block. They may include palpitations, dizziness, syncope (fainting), and in severe cases, cardiac arrest.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of sinoatrial block is typically made through an electrocardiogram (ECG), which can detect abnormalities in the heart's electrical activity. Other diagnostic tests may include a Holter monitor, which records the heart's electrical activity over a 24-hour period, and an event monitor, which records the heart's electrical activity during symptoms.
Treatment
Treatment for sinoatrial block depends on the severity of the block and the symptoms. In some cases, no treatment may be necessary. In other cases, treatment may involve medications to control the heart rate, a pacemaker to regulate the heart's rhythm, or surgery to correct the underlying cause of the block.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sinoatrial block
- Wikipedia's article - Sinoatrial block
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