premature ventricular contraction
An early heartbeat originating from the ventricles that interrupts the normal heart rhythm.
Full Definition
Premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) are ectopic beats that arise from ventricular tissue before the next expected sinus beat. They appear on ECG as wide, bizarre QRS complexes that differ morphologically from normal beats and are typically followed by a compensatory pause. PVCs are common in both healthy individuals and those with heart disease, occurring with increased frequency during stress, caffeine intake, or electrolyte imbalances. While isolated PVCs are usually benign, frequent or complex PVCs may indicate underlying cardiac pathology and can potentially lead to more serious arrhythmias. Treatment is considered when PVCs are symptomatic or occur in very high frequency.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as PVC; plural form is PVCs.
In Context
- "The Holter monitor revealed frequent premature ventricular contractions throughout the recording." — Arrhythmia monitoring report
- "Bigeminal PVCs were noted during the stress test." — Exercise stress test report