Etymed
sinoatrial node dysfunction
Definition
A condition where the sinoatrial node (the heart's natural pacemaker) fails to function properly, leading to irregular heart rhythms
Clinical context
A 72-year-old patient presents to the emergency department with episodes of lightheadedness and fatigue over the past week. The patient has a history of hypertension and diabetes. On examination, the physician notes an irregularly irregular pulse and suspects a rhythm disturbance. An ECG reveals sinus rhythm with long pauses, and the patient is diagnosed with sinoatrial node dysfunction.
Mnemonic
Sick sinus Syndrome - Sickness in the Sinoatrial node causing Sinus dysfunction
These morphemes also unlock…
- sin/o — sinus; hollow; cavity
- atri/o — atrium; entrance chamber
- -al — pertaining to
- nod/o — knot
- dys- — bad; painful; difficult
- function — performance; activity