Differential Diagnosis for Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- SVT (Supraventricular Tachycardia): This is the most likely diagnosis given the presentation of mx SVT, as it directly refers to a condition characterized by an abnormally fast heart rate originating above the ventricles.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Atrial Flutter: Often presents with a rapid, regular heart rhythm, which could be mistaken for SVT due to the similar symptoms of palpitations and shortness of breath.
- Atrial Fibrillation: Although typically irregular, atrial fibrillation can sometimes present with a rapid, regular ventricular response that might mimic SVT, especially if the patient has a controlled ventricular rate.
- Sinus Tachycardia: A condition where the heart beats too quickly due to factors like anxiety, fever, or dehydration, which could be considered in the differential due to overlapping symptoms.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ventricular Tachycardia (VT): A life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. Although it originates in the ventricles, it can sometimes be mistaken for SVT due to the rapid heart rate, and missing this diagnosis could be fatal.
- Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome: A condition where an accessory electrical pathway between the atria and ventricles causes the heart to beat too quickly. It can lead to SVT but also has the potential for more dangerous arrhythmias.
- Myocardial Infarction or Acute Coronary Syndrome: Although less common, myocardial infarction can sometimes present with tachyarrhythmias, including SVT, especially in the context of acute cardiac injury.
Rare Diagnoses
- Junctional Tachycardia: A rare condition where the heart's electrical impulse originates from the AV junction, leading to a rapid heart rate.
- Idiopathic Left Ventricular Tachycardia: A rare form of VT that could potentially be confused with SVT due to its focal origin and potential for re-entry.
- Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia (CPVT): A rare genetic disorder that can cause life-threatening arrhythmias, often triggered by physical activity or emotional stress, which might initially present similarly to SVT in some cases.