Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy
Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy Causes
The underlying cause of ARVC is human genetics, typically inherited as a dominant Mendelian disease.
Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy Definition
Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is an genetic cardiac muscle disorder characterized by a damaged muscle that can be gradually replaced by fat and scar tissue. This serious heart disease is one of the highly recognized causes of sudden death among teenagers. ARVC can cause some abnormal heart rhythms that can result to the weakening of the heart's pumping action. In most cases, this medical condition is not fatal and does not significantly affect the quality of life. However, a number of patients usually develop some other complications and would require constant medical attention.
Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy Diagnosis
In order to make a definitive diagnosis of ARVD, there are a number of clinical tests to be performed including echocardiograpy, cardiac MRI, electro cardiogram and right ventricular angiography.
Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy Symptoms and Signs
Among the prominent signs and symptoms of the progression of this disease includes subtle ventricular changes and arrhythmias. The involvement of both ventricular may possibly lead to heart failure and cardiomyopathy.
Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy Treatment
The common treatments for ARVC include the prescription of beta-blockers such as amiodarone or sotalol to effectively lower proarrhythmic risk. Some patients may also require implantable cardioverter defibrillator. Heart transplantation may also be considered in severe cases with patients in the end stage heart failure.