This book covers all the recent research highlights of arrhythmogenic right ventr- ular cardiomyopathy/dysplasia (ARVC/D), a recently discovered heart muscle d- ease which is a major threat to the life of affected young people. It summarizes ne- ly 25 years of investigation on the etiology, genetics, pathology, clinical features, - agnosis, and treatment of ARVC/D. In particular, a 5-year research program supported by grants from both the European Community and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institutes has contributed to the discovery of seven disease-causing genes, thus opening new avenues for the early identification of affected patients and prevention of sudden death. A Workshop was held in Venice, Italy, October 3, 2005, as part of the Venice - rhythmia Meeting, where the European and American investigators presented and discussed several major achievements which are now reported in this book.As a - sult of these coordinated efforts, great advances have been made in the recognition and understanding of the disease, which are summarized in this book.
