Pulsus bigeminus
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Pulsus bigeminus is a cardiovascular phenomenon characterized by groups of two heartbeats close together followed by a longer pause. The second pulse is weaker than the first. It is caused by premature contractions, usually of the ventricles, after every other beat.
Causes
Life Threatening Causes
Life-threatening causes include conditions which may result in death or permanent disability within 24 hours if left untreated. Pulsus bigeminus in itself is not a life threatening condition.
Common Causes
The most common cause of Pulsus bigeminus is hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. Other Common causes include: