Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia (CPVT)

About

  • CPVT is a condition affecting the electrical system of your heart, which increases the risk for abnormally fast and chaotic heart rhythm. The heart rhythm abnormality can be triggered by physical activity or emotional stress. This abnormal heart rhythm can trigger a fainting spell, a seizure, or sudden cardiac death.
  • CPVT is a genetic condition diagnosed in approximately 1 in 10,000 people, more often in childhood than adulthood. CPVT can be inherited or can be caused by a new genetic change in the person with the condition.

Treatment/Standard of Care

Diagnosing CPVT typically requires an evaluation by an arrhythmia expert with an exercise treadmill test and other cardiac tests. Genetic testing can also be helpful.

Treatment typically includes medications, avoidance of intense exercise and in some cases surgery or cardiac devices.

Additional Resources

Please note: The Canadian SADS Foundation provides links to external websites for informational purposes only. While we regard these as reputable sources of information, please be aware that The Canadian SADS Foundation is not responsible for the accuracy, legality, or content of the external site or for that of subsequent links.

Heart Rhythm Society

Patient page about CPVT in Children from the Heart Rhythm Society (US).

Nova Scotia Health

Nova Scotia Health pamphlet on CPVT (2023). 

British Heart Foundation

Information on CPVT for patients from the British Heart Foundation (2022).