atrial high-rate episode
Pronunciation: ay-aitch-arr-ee
Also written as: AHRE
Detected period of rapid atrial rhythm above programmed detection thresholds, stored by device diagnostics for clinical review.
Full Definition
Atrial high-rate episodes (AHRE) are periods of rapid atrial electrical activity detected and stored by cardiac devices when heart rate exceeds programmed detection thresholds, typically indicating atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter episodes. These diagnostic features provide valuable clinical information about arrhythmia burden even in asymptomatic patients. Medical editors must understand AHRE documentation standards, including duration thresholds, rate criteria, and clinical significance in anticoagulation decision-making and stroke risk assessment.
Usage
Usage note: Include duration and burden data; distinguish detection from clinical diagnosis; specify detection rate thresholds when relevant.
In Context
- "Device interrogation revealed 47 atrial high-rate episodes totaling 8.3 hours over the past three months." — Device clinic report
- "AHRE burden exceeding 24 hours annually influences anticoagulation therapy decisions in stroke prevention." — Clinical decision guideline