Final answer:
Multifocal atrial tachycardia (MAT) is a type of cardiac arrhythmia characterized by a rapid and irregular heart rate. It is caused by multiple abnormal electrical signals originating from different sites in the atria. MAT is commonly seen in patients with chronic lung disease, especially COPD.
Step-by-step explanation:
Multifocal atrial tachycardia (MAT) is a type of cardiac arrhythmia characterized by a rapid heart rate (above 100 beats per minute) with irregular electrical activity originating from multiple sites in the atria of the heart. Unlike other types of tachycardia, MAT is not caused by a single ectopic focus. Instead, it is caused by multiple ectopic foci firing in a random pattern. This leads to a chaotic and irregular heartbeat. MAT is often seen in patients with underlying lung disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and it can also be triggered by certain medications or electrolyte imbalances.
Some important characteristics of multifocal atrial tachycardia include:
- Irregular heartbeat: The heart rate is faster than normal and irregular, with varying distances between the QRS complexes on the electrocardiogram (ECG).
- Multiple ectopic foci: Unlike other types of tachycardia, MAT is caused by multiple abnormal electrical signals originating from different sites in the atria.
- Associated with lung disease: MAT is commonly seen in patients with chronic lung disease, especially COPD.