Differential diagnosis of tachycardia with a broad QRS-complex

Herzschrittmachertherapie & Elektrophysiologie
Thomas DenekePhilipp Halbfass

Abstract

The electrocardiographic (ECG) differential diagnosis of tachycardia with a broad QRS complex (BCT) represents a challenge for physicians but is important for adequate treatment and risk evaluation. Differentiated algorithms have been established and can increase the specificity of the diagnosis in individual patients but are often hampered by complexity and yield a pragmatic ECG approach. Irregular BCTs (irregular R-R distances) despite the patient being hemodynamically stable are almost always due to atrial fibrillation with bundle branch block (pre-existing or functional) or conduction via accessory pathways. In contrast, sustained polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (VT) is always associated with hemodynamic collapse. In regular BCT the following mechanisms must be differentiated: (1) VT, (2) supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) with bundle branch block or (3) SVT with pre-excitation via accessory pathways, e.g. Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome. The presence of an underlying structural heart disease, specifically a history of myocardial infarction is suggestive of VT. For a differentiated analysis in hemodynamically stable patients a 12-lead ECG is essential. Identification of signs of atrioventricular (AV) dissociation o...Continue Reading

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