Sarcoidosis
Sarcoidosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect any organ in the body but most often involves the lungs. The cause of sarcoidosis is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune reaction to something in the environment.
The exact mechanism by which sarcoidosis causes ventricular tachycardia is unknown, but it is thought that granulomas may interfere with the electrical signals that control heart rate. Granulomas are also thought to interfere with the normal function of the heart muscle, making it more difficult for the ventricles to pump blood effectively. In some cases, scarring of the heart tissue from sarcoidosis can result in ventricular tachycardia.
The first step in treating ventricular tachycardia caused by sarcoidosis is identifying and treating any underlying conditions, such as high blood pressure or irregular heartbeat. In some cases, medications may be needed to control ventricular tachycardia episodes. If medications are ineffective or ventricular tachycardia episodes are frequent or severe, implantable cardioverter defibrillators may be recommended. These devices deliver electrical shocks to stop ventricular tachycardia episodes. Surgery may be needed to remove granulomas from the heart or repair damage to the heart tissue.
