Tachycardia-Induced Cardiomyopathy: Atrial Fibrillation and Congestive Heart Failure

Tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy occurs as a result of prolonged, excessive heart rates. Ventricular function may improve significantly upon control of the heart rate. We present a case of a patient with atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response who showed a dramatic improvement in left ventricular function following AV nodal ablation and insertion of a pacemaker. We also review the history and pathophysiology of tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy.