Final answer:
Monomorphic and polymorphic ventricular tachycardia and Torsade de Pointes are serious types of arrhythmias that can lead to ventricular fibrillation and sudden death. They can be treated with controlled electric shocks and are often a complication of myocardial infarction or extreme stress conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Monomorphic and polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (VT) and Torsade de Pointes are indeed types of arrhythmias that can be life-threatening. Ventricular tachycardia refers to a fast heart rhythm that originates in one of the ventricles of the heart. Monomorphic VT has a consistent appearance on an ECG, whereas polymorphic VT varies in its ECG presentation. On the other hand, Torsades de Pointes is a specific form of polymorphic VT that can evolve into ventricular fibrillation, which is often fatal if not promptly treated.
Arrhythmias are caused by problems with the electrical conduction system of the heart. In some cases, a controlled electric shock, either cardioversion or defibrillation, is used as urgent treatment. Defibrillation is especially crucial in cases of ventricular fibrillation, as the heart beats in an unsynchronized manner and fails to effectively pump blood, placing the patient's life in grave danger. In such situations, an external automated defibrillator may be used to administer a shock to 'reboot' the heart's rhythm.
Heart arrhythmias can also be a secondary complication of other medical conditions, such as myocardial infarction (MI) or extreme stress, which may lead to conditions like broken heart syndrome or stress cardiomyopathy. These conditions can precipitate lethal arrhythmias and require immediate attention and treatment to prevent severe outcomes, including sudden cardiac death.