Ectopic atrial tachycardia

**Definition:** Ectopic atrial tachycardia originates from a small area (focus) in the atrium and spreading centrifugally.

**Long definition:** This form of supraventricular tachycardia originates in the atrium; conduction to the ventricles is not necessary for the tachycardia to continue. This irregular heart-rate is manifest by atrial rates between 100 and 250 bpm and rarely at 300 bpm, and may arise from right or left atrial sites due to conduction of non-sinus P wave.