Second-degree atrioventricular block | |
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Other names | Second-degree heart block |
ECGs demonstrating forms of second-degree AV block | |
Specialty | Cardiology |
Symptoms | Dizziness, Fainting, Shortness of breath |
Types | Type 1 (Wenckebach), Type 2 |
Causes | Fibrosis in AV node, medication, vagal tone, electrolyte disturbances |
Diagnostic method | Electrocardiogram |
Treatment | Avoidance of AV-nodal-blocking medication, pacemaker |
Second-degree atrioventricular block (AV block) is a disease of the electrical conduction system of the heart. It is a conduction block between the atria and ventricles. The presence of second-degree AV block is diagnosed when one or more (but not all) of the atrial impulses fail to conduct to the ventricles due to impaired conduction. It is classified as a block of the AV node, falling between first-degree (slowed conduction) and third degree blocks (complete block).[1]