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AV Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia (AVNRT)

The most common paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, triggered by dual conduction pathways within the AV node.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

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What is AV Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia (AVNRT)?

Atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) is the most common paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, arising from a reentrant circuit formed by slow and fast conduction pathways within the AV node (dual AV nodal physiology). It typically produces a regular tachycardia of 140–250 bpm.

AVNRT occurs most often in women between 20 and 40 years of age. Episodes begin and end abruptly and may last from seconds to hours. Vagal maneuvers (Valsalva, carotid massage) can terminate attacks.

Diagnosis is made by ECG and electrophysiology study. Acute treatment options include adenosine or calcium channel blockers; long-term management is with catheter ablation, which offers a cure rate above 95%.

Symptoms

Palpitations with sudden onset and offset
Regular rapid heart rate (140–250 bpm)
Neck pulsations (frog sign)
Chest discomfort
Dizziness and lightheadedness
Dyspnea
Rarely syncope or presyncope

Risk Factors

Female sex
Young adulthood (20–40 years)
Caffeine, alcohol and stress
Thyroid disease
Electrolyte disturbances
Intense physical exercise
Certain medications (sympathomimetics)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Recurrent episodes of rapid palpitations
  • Palpitations accompanied by syncope or presyncope
  • Chest pain with palpitations
  • Episodes not terminating with vagal maneuvers
  • When SVT is diagnosed on ECG
  • Increasing frequency affecting quality of life

Treatment Methods

01
Acute attack: vagal maneuvers (Valsalva, carotid sinus massage)
02
Intravenous adenosine (first-line acute therapy)
03
Beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers (prophylaxis)
04
Antiarrhythmic drugs (flecainide, propafenone)
05
Catheter ablation (curative; >95% success)
06
Avoidance of caffeine and triggers
07
Regular cardiology follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.