Assessing the Risk of Arrhythmias and Sudden Cardiac Events in Duchenne (March 4, 2021)
by: Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy
Cardiac involvement in Duchenne starts in early childhood, and by the end of the second decade, weakening of the heart muscle is observed in over 40% of men and can lead to heart failure, heart rhythm abnormalities and sudden cardiac death. On March 4, 2021, our presenters discussed a multicenter trial to better assess the risk of arrhythmias in patients with Duchenne. The role of ambulatory EKG monitors (Holter and Event monitors; implantable loop recorders), cardiac imaging (cardiac MRI) and novel computational technologies (computer simulations using patient-specific 3D heart models) for risk stratification of sudden death were discussed. This study is supported by PPMD and the Department of Defense Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Research Program (DMDRP).