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Atrial fibrillation and anabolic steroids
M L Sullivan1, C M Martinez, E J Gallagher
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA.
The Journal of Emergency Medicine
|September 28, 1999
Summary
Anabolic steroid (AS) use in a young bodybuilder was linked to rapid atrial fibrillation (AF). Symptoms resolved after discontinuing AS, highlighting potential cardiac risks in athletes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sports Medicine
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Anabolic steroids (AS) are performance-enhancing drugs often misused by athletes.
- AS use is associated with various cardiovascular complications, including hypertension and cardiomyopathy.
- Athletes may use AS for rapid muscle gain, potentially disregarding health risks.
Observation:
- A young male bodybuilder presented with symptomatic rapid atrial fibrillation (AF).
- Echocardiogram showed significant septal hypokinesis and borderline increased septal and posterior wall thickness.
- Cardiac symptoms resolved after the cessation of AS use.
Findings:
- The patient's atrial fibrillation (AF) did not recur within 10 weeks of discontinuing anabolic steroids (AS).
- The echocardiogram findings suggest potential cardiac remodeling or dysfunction possibly induced by AS.
- This case highlights a direct correlation between AS consumption and acute cardiac events like AF.
Implications:
- Anabolic steroid (AS) use poses significant cardiovascular risks for athletes, including arrhythmias.
- Clinicians should consider AS use in young athletes presenting with unexplained cardiac symptoms.
- Discontinuation of AS may lead to the resolution of certain steroid-induced cardiac abnormalities.