Definition
Ventricular tachycardia (VT) is a rapid heartbeat that starts in the ventricles
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Ventricular tachycardia is a pulse rate of more than 100 beats per minute, with at least 3 irregular heartbeats in a row.
The condition can develop as an early or late complication of a heart attack. It may also occur in patients with:
- Cardiomyopathy
- Heart failure
- Heart surgery
- Myocarditis
- Valvular heart disease
Ventricular tachycardia can occur without heart disease.
Scar tissue may form in the muscle of the ventricles days, months, or years after a heart attack. This can lead to ventricular tachycardia.
Ventricular tachycardia can also be caused by:
- Anti-arrhythmic medications
- Changes in blood chemistry (such as a low potassium level)
- Changes in pH (acid-base)
- Lack of enough oxygen
“Torsade de pointes” is a form of ventricular tachycardia that is often due to congenital heart disease or the use of certain medications.
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Ventricular tachycardia:Overview, Causes
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Ventricular tachycardia: Symptoms & Signs Diagnosis & Tests
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Ventricular tachycardia:Treatment
Review Date : 6/7/2008
Reviewed By : David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only — they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2010 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.