Arrhythmia

Supraventricular Tachycardia

Supraventricular tachycardia includes a diverse group of abnormal rhythms originating from the atria, the upper chambers of the heart, or the atrioventricular (AV) node, a small mass of tissue located in the wall of the right atrium. The AV node slows the impulse coming from the atria before it passes through to the ventricles. Atrioventricular (AV) nodal reentry tachycardia is one example of supraventricular tachycadia.

Atrioventricular (AV) Nodal Reentry Tachycardia

The diagram above shows an example of AV nodal reentry tachycardia, where the impulse moves abnormally through the AV node.

• Other Abnormal Heart rhythms
• Arrhythmia -- Signs and Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
• UCSF Cardiac Electrophysiology and Arrhythmia Service

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated May 8, 2007

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or health care provider. We encourage you to discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have.