[Practical management of common arrhythmias in children].

Premature supraventricular or ventricular beats are frequently seen in children of all age groups and are in most instances a benign condition. Intermittent and infrequent premature beats usually are not an indication for a cardiologic work-up. If ventricular or supraventricular premature beats are frequent and persist over a period of weeks or months, we usually recommend a cardiological evaluation. In those patients where ventricular or supraventricular tachycardias are found, the treatment is based on symptomatology, frequency of arrhythmias and impact on quality of life. In ventricular tachycardias, the presence of underlying cardiac disease is of prognostic importance and treatment more aggressive. Idiopathic ventricular tachycardia without structural heart disease usually shows a benign course and has a good prognosis.