What is atrial standstill?

As a domain expert in cardiology, I can provide you with an accurate description of atrial standstill. Atrial standstill is a rare cardiac condition characterized by the complete absence of electrical activity in the atria, the upper chambers of the heart. This lack of electrical activity means that the atria do not contract, which can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications. The condition can be congenital, meaning it is present from birth, or acquired, which can be due to various factors such as myocardial infarction, heart surgery, or certain medications. In atrial standstill, the atria are electrically isolated from the ventricles, which means the ventricles may continue to function normally, albeit with a slower heart rate. This is because the atrioventricular (AV) node, which is the only electrical pathway between the atria and ventricles, can bypass the non-functioning atria and maintain a regular rhythm through an escape rhythm. Patients with atrial standstill may experience symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, palpitations, and syncope (fainting). The diagnosis is typically made through electrocardiogram (ECG), which will show no atrial activity but may reveal a junctional or ventricular escape rhythm. Treatment for atrial standstill may include pacemaker implantation to regulate the heart rate, as well as medications to manage the symptoms and any underlying causes. It is important for patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to determine the best course of action.

Atrial standstill is a rare arrhythmogenic condition characterized by the absence of electrical and mechanical activity in the atria, transient or persistent, and complete or partial.