Role of Adipose Tissue in the Pathogenesis of Cardiac Arrhythmias

Epicardial adipose tissue is present in normal healthy individuals. It is a unique fat depot which under physiological conditions plays a cardio- protective role. However epicardial adipose tissue when in excess has been shown to be associated with the prevalence and severity of atrial fibrillation. In arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy and myotonic dystrophy fibro fatty infiltration of the myocardium is associated with ventricular arrhythmias. In the ovine model of ischemic cardiomyopathy the presence of intramyocardial adipose or lipomatous metaplasia has been has been associated with increased propensity to ventricular tachycardia.
Source: Heart Rhythm - Category: Cardiology Authors: Tags: CRV Source Type: research