Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy (AC & ARVC)
Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy (AC & ARVC)
What are AC and ARVC?
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (AC) is a rare inherited heart muscle condition that causes irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) at a higher rate than other heart muscle conditions. AC can affect primarily either the left ventricle (Left Dominant Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy) or the right ventricle (Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy, or ARVC). Individuals with AC or ARVC may have symptoms of palpitations or fainting due to arrhythmias. Symptoms may also include shortness of breath due to reduced pumping function of the heart.
Appointment Information
To make an appointment for expert consultation for a suspected or known inherited cardiomyopathy or arrhythmia condition, contact us toll-free at 888-287-1082 and ask to speak with our program nurse coordinator. Please visit our Make a Cardiovascular Appointment page for more information.
Evaluation
Evaluation of the whole family is important since the condition is often passed on to the next generation of a family but may not cause symptoms initially. The diagnosis of AC or ARVC is often challenging and requires a thorough evaluation, including advanced imaging with cardiac MRI and genetic testing.
Careful risk assessment for dangerous arrhythmias is also an important part of the evaluation, and sometimes implantable defibrillators (ICDs) are recommended in high risk individuals. High intensity exercise or sports may contribute to worsening in some patients, and thoughtful, personalized counseling to set exercise guidelines is often needed. While no medications are known to prevent worsening of AC, with correct identification of individuals at high-risk of arrhythmias, most people with AC lead full and normal lives.
Learn more about Inherited Cardiomyopathies and Arrhythmias
Research
U-M Health has a research program dedicated to learning more about AC and ARVC. Patient participation in research is a vital part of our mission to advancing our understanding and care for these conditions. If you are a patient interested in contributing to AC or ARVC research, ask your doctor about joining.
Locations
-
Cardiology Clinic | Frankel Cardiovascular Center 1425 E Ann St
Floor 3 Reception C
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5856Get Directions -
Electrophysiology Services | Cardiovascular Center 1425 E Ann St
Floor 3 Reception C
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5856Get Directions
Doctors
Frank Matthias Bogun, MD
Professor
Cardiac Electrophysiology, Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease
Adam Steven Helms, MD
Assistant Professor
Cardiovascular Disease, Internal Medicine
Rakesh Latchamsetty, MD
Clinical Associate Professor
Cardiac Electrophysiology, Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Disease
Eric David Smith, MD
Clinical Instructor
Cardiovascular Disease
News & Stories
Treating a rare coronary artery aneurysm without open heart surgery
How to spot the signs of a heart arrhythmia
Delays in Heart Surgery for Women due to One-Size-Fits-All Criteria
Virtual reality enhances training for pediatric cardiologists
Strength amidst strain: Measuring resilience in young heart patients