Learn About Multi Focal Atrial Tachycardia (MAT)!

What is Multi Focal Atrial Tachycardia (MAT)?

Multi Focal Atrial Tachycardia (MAT) is a supraventricular tachycardia due to multiple ectopic foci within the atria. The rhythm is irregular with variable P wave morphology, and the heart rate is usually over 100 bpm. The effect of carotid massage on MAT is generally limited.

Multi Focal Atrial Tachycardia (MAT) is a type of arrhythmia in the group of supraventricular tachycardias and is an abnormal heart rhythm. The cardiac wise cause of MAT usually originates from multiple ectopic foci in the atrium or the heart's upper chambers. These abnormal pacemakers may be triggered by diseases or pathological conditions, or elevated stimulation by both sympathetic or parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system.

The rhythm in MAT is irregular with the P waves showing varying morphology as a result of the impulses originating from different locations in the atria. The heart rate in a patient with MAT is usually between 100-150 beats per minute, which is above the normal adult resting heart rate (60-100 bpm).

As for the carotid massage, this is a manual technique aiming to slow down the heart rate by stimulating the carotid sinus located in the neck. However, in MAT, the effect of carotid massage might be limited.