Auriculoventricular dissociations, also known as atrioventricular dissociations, refer to a medical condition characterized by a disruption in the normal transmission of electrical signals between the upper and lower chambers of the heart, namely the atria and the ventricles. In a healthy heart, electrical impulses are generated in the sinoatrial (SA) node, located in the right atrium, and are subsequently conducted to the atrioventricular (AV) node. From there, the impulses travel down a specialized conducting system to reach the ventricles, causing them to contract and pump blood.
In auriculoventricular dissociations, there is a loss of coordination or blockage of these electrical signals, leading to a lack of synchronicity between the atria and ventricles. As a result, the heart's upper and lower chambers beat independently, often at different rates. This disruption in cardiac conduction can occur due to various reasons, including myocardial infarction, medication side effects, certain cardiac abnormalities, or damage to the electrical conducting system.
Individuals with auriculoventricular dissociations may experience symptoms such as palpitations, rapid heart rate, dizziness, fainting, or shortness of breath. Diagnosis is typically made through electrocardiograms (ECGs), which can display irregularities in the heart's electrical activity.
Treatment options for auriculoventricular dissociations depend on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. In some cases, treatment may not be necessary if the condition does not lead to significant impairment. However, if symptoms are severe or the condition poses a risk to the individual's health, treatment may involve medications to regulate heart rate, cardiac devices such as pacemakers to ensure proper electrical conduction, or more invasive procedures like ablation therapy.
