Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 21, 2026

Scanning Electron Microscopy of Macerated Tissue to Visualize the Extracellular Matrix
Published on: June 14, 2016
A review of rhythm disorders in cardiac hypertrophy
1Department of Cardiology, Western Infirmary, Glasgow, United Kingdom.
Insights
Ventricular arrhythmias are common in left ventricular hypertrophy, likely due to fibrosis. Antiarrhythmic therapy might reduce mortality in severe cases, though further study is needed.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is associated with frequent ventricular arrhythmias.
- The underlying mechanisms of these arrhythmias are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between left ventricular hypertrophy and ventricular arrhythmias.
- To explore potential therapeutic strategies for managing arrhythmias in LVH.
Main Methods:
- The study reviewed existing experimental and human data on ventricular arrhythmias in LVH.
- Analysis focused on the role of hypertrophy-related fibrosis versus other potential causes.
Main Results:
- Ventricular arrhythmias in LVH appear primarily linked to the hypertrophic process and associated fibrosis.
- Coronary artery disease and hypokalemia were less likely causative factors.
Conclusions:
- Fibrosis associated with left ventricular hypertrophy is a key factor in ventricular arrhythmias.
- Antiarrhythmic therapy may offer mortality benefits in selected hypertensive patients with severe LVH, warranting further investigation.
Abstract:
Ventricular arrhythmias frequently occur in both experimental and human left ventricular hypertrophy. The mechanism of arrhythmia is not clear but appears to be related to the process of hypertrophy and the accompanying fibrosis rather than to coexistent coronary artery disease or diuretic-induced hypokalemia. Although neither the independent prognostic value of ventricular arrhythmias nor the benefit of antiarrhythmic therapy has been demonstrated in prospective studies involving hypertensive patients, it is possible that appropriate antiarrhythmic therapy may reduce mortality in selected patients with severe hypertrophy.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Mechanism of Cardiac Arrhythmias
Pathophysiology of Cardiac Performance
Dysrhythmias I: Introduction
Dysrhythmias V: Evaluating Dysrhythmias
Heart Failure II: Pathophysiology
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

