Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia (ARVD)

Overview

Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Dysplasia (ARVD), also known as arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, is a rare genetic heart condition in which healthy heart muscle in the right ventricle is replaced by fatty or fibrous tissue. This structural change disrupts the heart’s electrical system, leading to abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias).

ARVD can increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest, particularly in young individuals and athletes. Early diagnosis and proper management are essential to reduce risks and improve outcomes.

At Moolchand Hospital, a leading multi super speciality hospital in Delhi, patients receive advanced cardiac evaluation, rhythm monitoring, and expert care for complex heart conditions.

What is ARVD?

ARVD is a form of cardiomyopathy that primarily affects the right ventricle of the heart. Over time, the normal muscle tissue is replaced by fatty or fibrous tissue, weakening the heart muscle and disrupting electrical signals.

This leads to:

• Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)
  
  

• Reduced pumping efficiency
  
  

• Increased risk of sudden cardiac events
  
  

Symptoms

Symptoms may vary and sometimes remain unnoticed in early stages.

Common symptoms include:

• Palpitations (irregular heartbeat)
  
  

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
  
  

• Fainting (syncope)
  
  

• Shortness of breath
  
  

• Chest discomfort
  
  

Severe symptoms:

• Sudden cardiac arrest
  
  

• Severe arrhythmias
  
  

Immediate evaluation is necessary if symptoms occur.

Causes

ARVD is usually caused by genetic mutations affecting proteins that hold heart cells together.

Key causes include:

• Inherited genetic mutations
  
  

• Family history of ARVD or sudden cardiac death
  
  

• Progressive degeneration of heart muscle tissue
  
  

Risk Factors

Individuals at higher risk include:

• Family history of ARVD
  
  

• Young adults and athletes
  
  

• Individuals with unexplained fainting episodes
  
  

• Those with abnormal ECG findings
  
  

Screening is important for family members of affected individuals.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Recurrent palpitations
  
  

• Unexplained fainting
  
  

• Family history of sudden cardiac death
  
  

• Irregular heart rhythms
  
  

Early cardiac evaluation can prevent life-threatening complications.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves specialized cardiac testing:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  
  

• Echocardiography
  
  

• Cardiac MRI
  
  

• Holter monitoring
  
  

• Genetic testing
  
  

At Moolchand Hospital Delhi, advanced cardiac imaging and rhythm analysis help ensure accurate diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on controlling arrhythmias and preventing complications.

Medications

• Anti-arrhythmic drugs to control heart rhythm
  
  

Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)

• Device implanted to prevent sudden cardiac arrest
  
  

Lifestyle Modifications

• Avoidance of intense physical activity
  
  

• Regular monitoring
  
  

Catheter Ablation

• Procedure to treat abnormal electrical pathways
  
  

Specialists at Moolchand Hospital Lajpat Nagar provide comprehensive care tailored to each patient.

Complications

If untreated, ARVD may lead to:

• Life-threatening arrhythmias
  
  

• Sudden cardiac arrest
  
  

• Heart failure
  
  

• Progressive heart dysfunction
  
  

Early management significantly reduces risks.

Prevention

Since ARVD is genetic, it cannot be fully prevented. However:

• Family screening is important
  
  

• Avoid high-intensity sports if diagnosed
  
  

• Regular cardiac check-ups
  
  

• Early detection and monitoring
  
  

Why Choose Moolchand Hospital

Patients trust Moolchand Hospital Delhi for cardiac care because of:

• Experienced cardiologists and electrophysiology experts
  
  

• Advanced cardiac imaging and diagnostics
  
  

• Comprehensive arrhythmia management
  
  

• Emergency cardiac care and ICU support
  
  

• Trusted reputation as a private hospital in Delhi
  
  

For those searching for a heart specialist hospital in Delhi or best cardiac hospital in Delhi, Moolchand provides expert and compassionate care.