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Follow-up of patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy dysplasia


M.J. Munclinger
J.J. Patel
A.S. Mitha

Abstract

Objective. The enlargement of data on the natural course and management of patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy/dysplasia (ARVC/D).
Design. Retrospective and partly prospective observational study.
Setting. Cardiac Unit, Wentworth Hospital, Durban - the only unit in KwaZulu-Natal providing an arrhythmia and electrophysiology service.
Study population. Those included were: (i) patients referred for palpitations, unexplained syncope, or ventricular tachycardia and in whom ARVC/D was diagnosed according to multiple criteria; and (ii) family members of patients with ARVC/D in whom the disease was documented using the same criteria. Main outcome and measurements. Diagnosis, management, morbidity and mortality were analysed.
Results. Twelve patients were diagnosed with ARVC/D over a period or 6 years. At the end of follow-up for 3.4 ± 3.2 years, 7 of them were well and alive on anti-arrhythmic medication, 2 were asymptomatic, and 3 had died. One death was sudden, 1 patient died due to left ventricular failure, and 1 patient died due to a low cardiac output syndrome 3 months after right ventricular isolation, i.e. the mortality rate was 25%. ARVC/D was found in all racial groups and was familial in 5 patients (42%). In all but one patient the correct diagnosis was not suspected by the referring institution, physician or cardiologist.
Conclusions. ARVC/D needs to be included into a differential diagnosis of unexplained syncope, palpitations, or ventricular tachycardia by an health service providers. Its management remains a complex challenge with varying results.

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eISSN: 2078-5135
print ISSN: 0256-9574