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Multifocal Atrial Tachycardia (Multifocal Form)

Irregular tachycardia arising from multiple atrial foci, commonly related to underlying lung disease.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

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

References (5)

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What is Multifocal Atrial Tachycardia (Multifocal Form)?

Multifocal atrial tachycardia (MAT) is an irregular supraventricular tachycardia arising from at least three different atrial foci and characterized by three or more distinct P-wave morphologies on the ECG. Heart rate is usually between 100 and 150 bpm.

MAT occurs most often in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), severe pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, congestive heart failure and hypoxia. Electrolyte disturbances (hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), theophylline toxicity and sepsis are other important causes.

Diagnosis is based on the ECG; it should not be confused with atrial fibrillation. The cornerstone of treatment is correction of the underlying cause, especially COPD exacerbation and hypoxia. Calcium channel blockers (verapamil, diltiazem) and magnesium sulfate can be used for rate control.

Symptoms

Irregular rapid palpitations
Worsening dyspnea
Weakness and fatigue
Chest discomfort
Dizziness
Symptoms of the underlying disease (COPD exacerbation)
Confusion in severe cases

Risk Factors

COPD and chronic lung disease
Hypoxemia
Pulmonary embolism
Congestive heart failure
Hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia
Theophylline and catecholamine use
Sepsis and critical illness

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • New irregular palpitations in a COPD patient
  • Rapid worsening of dyspnea
  • Palpitations accompanied by confusion
  • ECG-confirmed MAT diagnosis
  • Exacerbation of the underlying disease
  • Falling oxygen saturation

Treatment Methods

01
Treatment of the underlying cause (COPD, hypoxia, pneumonia)
02
Oxygen therapy and bronchodilators
03
Intravenous magnesium sulfate
04
Calcium channel blockers (verapamil, diltiazem)
05
Correction of electrolyte disturbances
06
Reduction of theophylline dose when toxicity is present
07
AV node ablation with pacemaker in refractory cases

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.