Clinical significance of idiopathic frequent premature ventricular complexes

Abstract

Premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) in the absence of underlying structural heart disease are often benign. Most patients with this type of disease have an uneventful clinical course and can be treated based on symptoms. However, there exists a subset of patients with frequent PVCs that may develop cardiomyopathy and heart failure. This review describes the mechanisms and potential adverse effects of frequent PVCs, the prognosis and risk stratification of patients based on the nature and quantity of PVCs, and the clinical management and outcomes of these patients.