Abstract
Summary
Impairment of A-V conduction in rheumatic fever often, though not invariably, can be diminished or abolished by atro-pine. Inasmuch as acceleration in rate and decrease in conduction time do not always parallel one another in degree or duration, it appears that these 2 effects are not necessarily directly related. The exact mechanism involved is a matter for speculation. It is conceivable either that the release of the vagus lowers the threshhold for conduction through the junctional tissues, possibly through some chemical action; or that the strength of the excitatory impulse is augmented to such an extent that it can pass an area which offers increased resistance. Further observations along these lines are in progress.
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