Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 2, 2026

Author Spotlight: Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis for Unveiling Multicellular Immune Signatures in Clinical Heart Attack Cohorts
Published on: September 20, 2024
Mahaim Accessory Pathways
Demosthenes G Katritsis1, Hein J Wellens2, Mark E Josephson3
1Athens Euroclinic, Athens, Greece.
Insights
Mahaim fibers are rare, decrementally conducting pathways connecting the atrium or AV node to the ventricle near the right bundle branch. Their unique properties complicate diagnosis and treatment, requiring specialized understanding.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Cardiac Anatomy
Background:
- Mahaim fibers represent uncommon accessory pathways.
- These fibers connect the atria or AV node to the ventricle, typically near the right bundle branch.
- Their unique electrophysiological properties present diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing literature on Mahaim conduction.
- To elucidate the electrocardiographic and electrophysiological characteristics of Mahaim fibers.
- To discuss the anatomical origins of these anomalous cardiac fibers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of published evidence on Mahaim conduction.
- Analysis of electrocardiographic findings associated with Mahaim fibers.
- Review of electrophysiological study data.
Main Results:
- Mahaim fibers exhibit decremental conduction properties.
- Diagnosis can be challenging due to their rarity and unique characteristics.
- Understanding their anatomy and electrophysiology is crucial for effective management.
Conclusions:
- Mahaim conduction, though rare, requires thorough understanding.
- Detailed analysis of electrocardiographic and electrophysiological data is essential for diagnosis.
- Further research into the origin and management of Mahaim fibers is warranted.
Abstract:
The term Mahaim conduction is conventionally used to describe decrementally conducting connections between the right atrium or the AV node and the right ventricle in or close to the right bundle branch. Although such pathways are rare, their unique properties make their diagnosis and treatment cumbersome. In this article we review the published evidence, and discuss the electrocardiographic and electrophysiological characteristics as well as the anatomy and origin of these fibres.
Related Concept Videos
Accessory Organs
Indirect Motor Pathways
The vestibulospinal tract originates in the vestibular nuclei of the brainstem. The vestibular system detects changes in...
Direct Motor Pathways
The corticospinal tract is responsible for the voluntary movement of the limbs and trunk. It originates in the cerebral cortex of the brain and descends through the cerebrum's internal capsule and...
Major Somatic Sensory Pathways
Interactions Between Signaling Pathways
Convergence and divergence, and cross-talk between signaling pathways
Two distinct signaling pathways can converge on a single functional unit, which may either be a single protein or a complex of proteins. The response is either functionally distinct or synergistic between the two pathways but different from the response...
Accessory Structures of the Eye

