Sudden cardiac death: From pathophysiology to clinical management

Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) is a critical medical condition characterized by the abrupt cessation of cardiac activity, often as the first clinical manifestation of an underlying cardiovascular disorder. This comprehensive book provides an in-depth exploration of SCD ranging from its definition, epidemiology, and underlying pathophysiological mechanisms to clinical management strategies. The text highlights the primary arrhythmic substrates, including ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation, and discusses the contribution of structural heart diseases such as cardiomyopathies, as well as primary electrical diseases like channelopathies. Detailed epidemiological analysis covers risk factors including age, sex, genetic predispositions, and socioeconomic variables. The book elaborates on diagnostic approaches encompassing clinical assessment, advanced imaging modalities, genetic testing, and molecular autopsy, emphasizing their role in early detection and prevention. Furthermore, emergency management protocols and advanced life support techniques for sudden cardiac arrest are extensively discussed. Device-based therapies including implantable cardioverter-defibrillators, along with pharmacological interventions, are reviewed with emphasis on current guideline-based indications for primary and secondary prevention. Highlighting recent advances, the volume stresses the integration of novel biomarkers, advanced imaging, and AI-based tools for enhanced risk stratification. Overall, it serves as a vital resource for clinicians and researchers aiming to improve SCD outcomes through comprehensive risk assessment, timely intervention, and multidimensional patient management.