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Cardiac Electrophysiology

Meaning

Cardiac electrophysiology is the study of the electrical activity that governs the rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the heart muscle, the myocardium. This field investigates the movement of ions across cardiac cell membranes, generating action potentials that initiate the cardiac cycle. Understanding the precise sequence of depolarization and repolarization is fundamental to diagnosing and treating arrhythmias and other conduction disorders. Hormonal status, particularly thyroid and sex hormones, can significantly influence these intrinsic electrical properties and the overall cardiac rhythm.