Treatment options for ARVD

There is currently no known strategy for treating ARVD itself, but treatments are available to control abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) to help reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death.
The treatment of ARVD generally includes medications called antiarrhythmics and those who have elevated risk for sudden cardiac death frequently have an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) inserted. ICDs are typically recommended for an patients who have experienced serious ventricular arrhythmias, or those who are considered at high risk of certain arrhythmias (e.g., ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation). In some cases, radiofrequency ablation may be recommended in conjuction with other therapies. During this procedure, very targeted tissues in the heart are destroyed in an effort to reduce the risk of fatal tachyarrhythmias. Finally, a subset of patients with advanced disease may benefit from anticoagulation therapy to reduce the risk of blood clots.

All ARVD patients are urged to avoid excessive physical and emotional stress, including competitive sports, which could trigger a life-threatening cardiac event. However, some patients may be able to engage in recreational sports under the supervision of a physician. Individuals with ARVD should also use caution before taking prescription or over-the-counter medications. Cold and flu preparations that contain pseudoephedrine, a stimulant, can trigger arrhythmias, as can caffeine.

If the condition worsens and the patient develops heart failure, treatment will focus on the heart failure.