Ectopic Beats: How Many Count?

Abstract

Premature atrial and ventricular contractions, or ectopic beats, are frequently detected on routine electrocardiogram monitoring. They are often considered to be benign with no pathological significance; however, the literature suggests that higher ectopic burdens may have clinical importance. This paper reviews the current literature and provides the treating physician with an understanding of when ectopic beats should be deemed significant and when treatment may be appropriate.

Keywords

• Premature atrial complex (PAC)
• premature ventricular complex (PVC)
• ectopy
• ectopic beat
• stroke
• atrial fibrillation (AF)