Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026

Echocardiographic Evaluation of Atrial Communications before Transcatheter Closure
Published on: February 8, 2022
Case studies: Simultaneous intermittent intraatrial and intraventricular conduction defects mimicking trifascicular
Insights
Intermittent intraatrial block with left bundle branch block, causing PR prolongation, can mimic trifascicular delay. Electrophysiology helps distinguish this pseudofascicular defect from true conduction issues.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Cardiac Conduction System
Background:
- Intermittent rate-related left bundle branch block and trifascicular conduction delay are known entities.
- Intraatrial block combined with left bundle branch block has not been previously documented.
Observation:
- A case is presented exhibiting intermittent rate-related intraatrial block and left bundle branch block.
- This combination resulted in PR prolongation secondary to the intraatrial block.
Findings:
- The observed intraatrial block with left bundle branch block mimicked intermittent trifascicular conduction delay.
- Electrophysiological testing was crucial in differentiating this pseudotrifascicular defect from genuine trifascicular conduction delay.
Implications:
- This finding expands the understanding of complex intra-atrial and bundle branch conduction abnormalities.
- Accurate electrophysiological assessment is vital for diagnosing and managing these pseudotrifascicular defects.
- Highlights the importance of recognizing atypical presentations of conduction system disease.
Abstract:
Both intermittent rate related left bundle branch block and intermittent rate related trifascicular conduction delay (left bundle branch block with marked H-V interval prolongation) have been previously described. However intermittent rate related intraatrial block with left bundle branch block has not. No only does the case presented herein reveal intermittent rate related intraatrial block with left bundle branch block, but also PR prolongation secondary to the intraatrial block. This combination mimicked intermittent trifascicular conduction delay. Electrophysiological testing allowed differentiation of this pseudotrifascicular defect from true trifascicular conduction delay.
Related Concept Videos
Mechanism of Cardiac Arrhythmias
Disturbances in Heart Rhythm
Arrhythmias are categorized by their speed, rhythm, and origin. A slow heart...
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests
Dysrhythmias III: Characteristics of Dysrhythmias
Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias
ECG Interpretation of Arrhythmias II: Atrial, Junctional and Ventricular Arrhythmias

