Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia(patient information)
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Mounika Reddy Vadiyala, M.B.B.S.[2]
Overview
Catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT) is a rare condition characterized by an irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia) that can be life-threatening. In people with CPVT, these episodes typically begin in childhood but symptoms can also show up later in life. As the heart rate increases in response to physical activity or emotional stress, it can trigger an abnormally fast and irregular heartbeat called ventricular tachycardia. With this condition, the heart beats so quickly that it doesn't have enough time to fill blood between beats. As a result, not enough blood gets pumped to the body. The first sign is often fainting or near fainting during exercise or strong emotion. Other symptoms include light-headedness, dizziness, and also may cause the heart to stop beating (cardiac arrest), leading to sudden death. If untreated, it is very lethal.
What are the symptoms of catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia?
What causes catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia?
Who is at highest risk?
Diagnosis
When to seek urgent medical care?
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you have a rapid, irregular pulse, faint, or have chest pain. All of these may be signs of ventricular tachycardia.