Work

Rapid progression of right ventricular dysfunction: a case report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a genetic myocardial disease characterized by progressive myocyte loss and fibrofatty (fibrous and adipose) tissue replacement to predispose these patients to fatal ventricular arrhythmias and impairment of ventricular systolic function. The relationship of ACM and myocarditis has gained significant attention. CASE PRESENTATION: This case presented a 28-year-old female who was admitted to the hospital with complaints of recurrent lower limb edema and palpitations for 6 months. Her electrocardiogram revealed a typical manifestation of an advanced form of biventricular arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM). Despite systematic medical management, her right ventricle (RV) function deteriorated rapidly, necessitating heart transplantation. Postoperative histopathological examinations confirmed the RV involvement as reflected in the electrocardiogram. Especially, multiple foci of lymphocytic infiltration were observed throughout the heart, with the RV being the most severe. CONCLUSION: When a rapid progression of ACM occurs, a concomitant myocarditis should be considered. ACM may be an inflammation-mediated transformation from myocardial tissue to fibrofatty tissue, and myocarditis may be a part of the natural history in some ACM cases.

Source: BMC Cardiovascular Disorders

DOI: 10.1186/s12872-025-04601-2

Authors: Guoliang Li, Changying Zhao, Lingmin Wu, Yang Yan

Institutions: First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Fu Wai Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Cardiovascular Effects of Exercise

Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,090