First-degree atrioventricular (AV) block is present when the PR interval is > 0.20 s and is a common finding. It represents a delay in conduction through the AV junction (the AV node and immediately adjacent myocardium).
The PR interval shows progressive prolongation after each successive P wave until a P wave occurs without a resulting QRS complex. Often the cycle is then repeated.
There is a constant PR interval in the conducted beats but some of the P waves are not conducted (i.e. followed by QRS complexes), in this case producing 2:1 AV block. This may occur randomly, without any consistent pattern. People with Mobitz II AV block have an increased risk of progression to complete AV block and asystole.
2:1 AV block describes the situation in which only alternate P waves are followed by a QRS complex. 2:1 AV block may be due to Mobitz I or Mobitz II AV block and it may be difficult to distinguish which it is from the ECG appearance. If bundle branch block is present (broad QRS complexes) as well as 2:1 block, this is likely to be Mobitz II block.
This shows a 3:1 AV block, which is less common and is usually a form of Mobitz II AV block.
