A 19-year-old male with palpitations

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Genetics
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (ARVD) is a primary genetic cardiomyopathy.
• It predisposes individuals to potentially fatal ventricular arrhythmias.
• Early identification is key to managing ARVD risk.

Observation:

• A 19-year-old male presented with intermittent palpitations.
• Electrocardiogram revealed characteristic epsilon waves.
• These findings suggested ARVD.

Findings:

• Diagnostic workup including cardiac MRI and stress testing confirmed ARVD.
• The patient's condition was identified and managed promptly.
• This aggressive approach was vital in preventing adverse outcomes.

Implications:

• Emergency department physicians must be vigilant for ARVD signs.
• Timely diagnosis and intervention can significantly reduce ARVD-related mortality.
• This case highlights the importance of recognizing subtle cardiac indicators in young patients.