Unifocal origin of multiform extrasystoles in concealed bigeminy

A case of concealed bigeminy is presented in which two forms of extrasystolic complexes were evident on the ECG. One form (type B) appeared after a single conducted sinus beat, in a pattern of manifest bigeminy. The other form (type A) occurred after a sequence of more than one conducted sinus beat. The two configurations have previously been explained on the basis of different foci and mechanisms. Certain features of the ECG from our patient suggested that the two forms originated from a common site. An experimental model was developed in which the right ventricle of a dog was stimulated at sub- or suprathreshold voltages on alternate sinus beats to simulate concealed bigeminy. The ECG obtained during stimulation of a single site was remarkably similar to that recorded from the patient. We have proposed that the extrasystoles that occur after a compensatory pause may spread in a manner different from those that follow a basic cardiac cycle length. The different pattern of propagation is probably ascribable to the lengthening of the refractory period of the cardiac tissues by the compensatory pause.