Ventricular Fibrillation (VF) in Adults

Patients with AVC may present clinically with symptoms (see below) of atrial fibrillation, abnormal electrical system, ventricular arrhythmias, or sudden cardiac arrest.

Patients may be asymptomatic and the finding of decreased function or ventricular scar could be identified incidentally during cardiac screening if performed secondary to a significant family history of the disease.

Other commonly reported symptoms are:

• Chest pain
• Palpitations
• Heart racing
• Dizziness
• Shortness of breath
• Decreased energy
• Fainting

The presence of any of these symptoms should be discussed with a cardiologist/electrophysiologist team.

The diagnosis of ACM is made through a series of noninvasive tests, none of which are highly specific or sensitive. The diagnosis is made based on specific diagnostic criteria.

ARVC should be considered in patients who have syncope during exercise, exercise induced arrhythmias, survivors of cardiac arrest (particularly during exertion), frequent premature ventricular contractions (PVC’s, > 500 in 24 hours), all symptoms of above in the absence of other heart disease.

Your cardiologist may consider the following tests to help with the diagnosis:

• ECG
• Signal Average ECG
• Echocardiogram (or echo)
• Cardiac MRI
• Exercise Stress Test
• Holter monitor
• Event monitor
• Implantable loop recorder
• Genetic testing

Management depends on the severity of the disease and symptoms. Medications may be used to manage the function of the heart and the arrhythmias, commonly beta-blockers or amiodarone. For patients who are identified to be at high risk for sudden cardiac arrest, an (ICD) implantable cardio defibrillator may be necessary. Your cardiologist/electrophysiologist may recommend that you undergo electrophysiology study (EPS) with or without an ablation.

A cardiac ablation is a procedure that may be recommended in an attempt to provide a potential cure or minimize the frequency of an arrhythmia. Heart transplantation is rare, but may be considered if standard medical treatment does not manage your symptoms and progressive heart failure is acquired.

For more information about living with this condition, visit SADS.org.

Avoidance of competitive strenuous sports is often recommended. All activities should first be discussed with your cardiologist and/or electrophysiologist prior to participating.