Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia history and symptoms

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

The onset of symptoms of arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia is usually in adolescence. Many individuals have symptoms associated with ventricular tachycardia, such as palpitations, light-headedness, or syncope. Symptoms are usually exercise-related. Exercise can induce polymorphic VT in some variants. Others may have symptoms and signs related to right ventricular failure, such as lower extremity edema, liver congestion with elevated hepatic enzymes. Unfortunately, sudden death may be the first manifestation of disease.

Symptoms

The first clinical signs of ARVD are usually during adolescence. However, signs of ARVD have been demonstrated in infants.
Symptoms are usually exercise-related. Exercise can induce polymorphic VT in some variants.
Syncope: Up to 80% of individuals with ARVD present with syncope or sudden cardiac death. The remainder frequently present with palpitations or other symptoms due to right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) tachycardia (a type of monomorphic ventricular tachycardia).
Some patients may have symptoms and signs related to right ventricular failure, such as lower extremity edema, liver congestion with elevated hepatic enzymes.
Unfortunately, sudden death may be the first manifestation of disease.