Mechanisms and Risk Factors for Premature Ventricular Contraction Induced Cardiomyopathy.

ABSTRACT

Frequent premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) can cause a reversible form of cardiomyopathy in patients without structural heart disease. Because of the challenging nature of PVC-induced cardiomyopathy (PVICM), the mechanisms and risk factors for PVICM are still unclear. Based on the evidence from retrospective and observational studies, the risk factors for the development of PVICM, in addition to PVC exposure, include QRS duration, coupling interval and male sex. Based on animal models, abnormal calcium handling and cardiac remodeling may be the crucial mechanism underlying the development of cardiomyopathy. We have summarized the current knowledge on PVICM in this review. Understanding these mechanisms and risk factors is important for the diagnosis and management of this condition, which can lead to heart failure if left untreated.