What heart rate range defines junctional tachycardia?

Junctional tachycardia is characterized by a heart rate that exceeds the upper limit of the normal range for junctional rhythms, which typically involves intrinsic rates of the junction (the area where the atria and ventricles meet) between 40 and 60 beats per minute. In the presence of junctional tachycardia, the heart rate typically ranges from 100 to 120 beats per minute. This elevated heart rate occurs due to enhanced automaticity or reentrant mechanisms within the junctional tissue, leading to a more rapid impulse generation.

The range of 100 to 120 bpm is critical because it distinguishes junctional tachycardia from other arrhythmias and helps in determining the appropriate treatment approach. A heart rate above 100 bpm aligns with the definition of tachycardia and is indicative of the junctional origin, which is important for differential diagnosis in clinical practice. Understanding and identifying this heart rate range is essential for proper management of the condition and ensuring correct intervention where necessary.