Focal Atrial Tachycardia

Abstract

Over the past decade, most of the electrophysiologic mechanisms in patients with focal atrial tachycardias (ATs) have been well studied. Recently, advanced mapping systems have revealed the precise propagation, and the relationship between non-radial propagation pattern and substrate property of focal AT. Non-radial activation pattern of focal AT may mimic macrorentrant AT and may lead to inappropriate ablation strategy. In this review, we will focus on the current state of mapping and ablation techniques, safety, and efficacy associated with the catheter ablation for focal AT. (J Arrhythmia 2006; 22: 132-148)

A Rare Occurrence of Focal Atrial Tachycardia in a Patient with Mixed Connective Tissue Disease and Chronic Rheumatic Heart Disease: A Possible Linkage?

“…The prevalence of this type of tachycardia in asymptomatic subjects was reported as 0.34%, while in symptomatic patients 0.46%. Persistent form of focal AT may lead to tachycardia induced cardiomyopathy and subsequently congestive cardiac failure [10]. Focal AT is defined as activation of the atria from a discrete focus located at atrial myocardium area which is less than 2 cm in diameter, followed by a centrifugal spread.…”