Final answer:
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and congestive heart failure (CHF) are the two most common causes of multifocal atrial tachycardia in elderly patients. Diagnosis is made with an electrocardiogram (ECG), and treatment focuses on the underlying cause.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two most common etiologies of multifocal atrial tachycardia that mainly affect elderly patients are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and congestive heart failure (CHF).
This condition is characterized by erratic electrical activity in the atria leading to a rapid and irregular heartbeat. It is worth noting that multifocal atrial tachycardia can also be triggered by other conditions causing electrolyte imbalances, hypoxemia, or exacerbated by certain medications.
Multifocal atrial tachycardia is diagnosed with the help of an electrocardiogram (ECG), which reveals the presence of multiple ectopic pacemakers within the atria and a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute. This arrhythmia is typically seen in the elderly, and managing the underlying cause is a crucial part of its treatment.