What is a major risk factor for developing multifocal atrial tachycardia?

What is a major risk factor for developing multifocal atrial tachycardia?

• A. Age over 60
• B. Obesity
• C. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• D. Hypertension

Answer: (C)

Multifocal atrial tachycardia (MAT) is commonly associated with underlying lung disease, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This connection is primarily due to the fact that COPD can lead to hypoxia and electrolyte imbalances, which can irritate the atrial tissue and precipitate the irregular atrial activity characteristic of MAT. In patients with COPD, the lung's reduced ability to exchange gases effectively can result in changes in the cardiac electrical system, thereby increasing the likelihood of arrhythmias such as MAT.

Age, obesity, and hypertension can also be related to cardiac issues, but they are less directly tied to the specific pathophysiology that leads to MAT compared to the inflammatory and oxygenation problems seen in COPD. Thus, while those factors might influence overall cardiovascular health, COPD stands out as a more direct and significant risk factor for the development of multifocal atrial tachycardia.