What term refers to the ventricular ectopic discharge at a rapid rate exceeding 100 beats per minute?

Ventricular tachycardia is defined as a series of consecutive heartbeats originating from the ventricles at a rapid rate, typically exceeding 100 beats per minute. This condition can occur due to various factors, including ischemia, structural heart disease, or electrolyte imbalances.

In the context of EKG interpretation, ventricular tachycardia often presents as a distinct wide-complex rhythm, which is noticeable on the electrocardiogram. The distinguishing feature of ventricular tachycardia compared to other forms of tachycardia is its origin in the ventricles rather than the atria or above the ventricular level. Because the electrical signals in ventricular tachycardia stem from the ventricles, it can lead to reduced cardiac output and potentially progress to more severe arrhythmias or cardiac complications if not managed promptly.

Understanding this term is crucial for recognizing the urgency of cardiac management required in specific clinical scenarios.