Genetic Characterization of Patients With Arrhythmia-Induced Cardiomyopathy

This study is looking at the genetic causes of a condition called arrhythmia-induced cardiomyopathy — where a persistent abnormal heart rhythm (such as atrial fibrillation or flutter) weakens the heart muscle over time, reducing its pumping ability. By analyzing the genetic profiles of affected patients, researchers hope to identify specific gene variants that make some people more vulnerable to this type of heart damage. **You may be eligible if...** - You have atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter that is not self-terminating - A cardiac imaging test (such as an echocardiogram or MRI) performed during your arrhythmia showed your heart's pumping function (ejection fraction) was below 50% - Your heart function improved significantly after the arrhythmia was treated - You are willing to provide a blood sample for genetic testing **You may NOT be eligible if...** - Your reduced heart function was clearly due to another cause (such as a prior heart attack or other heart disease) - You have had the arrhythmia for less than 3 months - You are unable or unwilling to provide a blood sample - You do not meet the imaging criteria that confirm arrhythmia as the cause of your weakened heart Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.