sick sinus syndrome
Also written as: SSS — sick sinus syndrome
Group of heart rhythm disorders caused by malfunction of the sinoatrial node, resulting in alternating bradycardia and tachycardia.
Full Definition
Sick sinus syndrome encompasses a spectrum of cardiac rhythm abnormalities resulting from dysfunction of the sinoatrial (SA) node, the heart's natural pacemaker. The condition is characterized by inappropriate sinus bradycardia, sinus arrest, sinoatrial block, and often alternating episodes of bradycardia and atrial tachyarrhythmias (bradycardia-tachycardia syndrome). It primarily affects elderly patients and can cause symptoms ranging from fatigue and dizziness to syncope. The syndrome often requires pacemaker implantation for symptomatic bradycardia, while tachyarrhythmic episodes may need separate antiarrhythmic management.
Usage
Usage note: Avoid informal abbreviation 'sick sinus' in formal documentation.
In Context
- "The patient's sick sinus syndrome manifested as symptomatic bradycardia requiring dual-chamber pacemaker implantation." — Operative report
- "Sick sinus syndrome was suspected given the alternating periods of atrial fibrillation and profound sinus bradycardia." — Telemetry monitoring report