
Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Premature atrial contraction natural history, complications and prognosis
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Premature atrial contraction (PAC) is a common form of supraventricular arrhythmias and mostly the prognosis is good. In rare cases, severe symptoms other than palpitation may occur.
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
- In general the prognosis of PACs is good, and their occurrence and prognosis is determined by the underlying condition that triggered the PACs.
- In rare cases, like a premature ventricular contraction (PVC), PACs trigger a more serious arrhythmia such as atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation.
- Unlike premature ventricular contraction, PAC’s generally do not cause hemodynamic compromise because the conduction throughout the AV node and ventricles is normal, and the filling and contraction of the heart is therefore normal.
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Mugilan Poongkunran M.B.B.S [2]
