Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026
05:48
Autonomic Function Following Concussion in Youth Athletes: An Exploration of Heart Rate Variability Using 24-hour Recording Methodology
Published on: September 21, 2018
Sudden cardiac death in the young athlete
1Michigan State University, Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, East Lansing, USA.
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|May 8, 2000
Summary
Sudden cardiac death in young athletes often stems from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or coronary artery anomalies. Early screening can identify most at-risk individuals.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sports Medicine
- Preventive Cardiology
Background:
- Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in athletes is a significant concern.
- Underlying cardiovascular diseases are the primary cause of SCD in athletes.
- In individuals under 30, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and congenital coronary artery anomalies are leading causes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the causes of sudden cardiac death in young athletes.
- To highlight the importance of screening for cardiovascular abnormalities in this population.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on sudden cardiac death in athletes.
- Analysis of common cardiovascular abnormalities in young athletes.
Main Results:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most frequent cause of SCD in athletes under 30.
- Congenital coronary artery anomalies are the second most common cause.
- Ventricular fibrillation is the typical terminal event.
Conclusions:
- Sudden cardiac death in young athletes, though rare, necessitates vigilance.
- Comprehensive screening, including history and physical examination, is crucial for identifying at-risk athletes.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Disturbances in Heart Rhythm
Arrhythmia or dysrhythmia refers to an abnormal heart rhythm caused by a defect in the heart's conduction system. It can cause the heart to beat irregularly, too quickly, or too slowly, leading to symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and fainting. Factors such as stress, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, certain drugs, congenital defects, diseases, and electrolyte abnormalities can trigger arrhythmias.
Arrhythmias are categorized by their speed, rhythm, and origin. A slow heart...
Arrhythmias are categorized by their speed, rhythm, and origin. A slow heart...
01:20Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Exercise significantly impacts cardiovascular response, which is crucial for understanding patient health and designing effective treatment plans.
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
01:30Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a primary health risk worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, resulting in diminished blood supply to the heart muscle.The clinical manifestations of CAD vary widely, from asymptomatic stages to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.Angina Pectoris: The Warning...
01:30Introduction Cardiac Emergencies
Cardiac emergencies are critical situations involving the heart that require immediate medical intervention to prevent severe complications or death. These emergencies often arise from underlying heart conditions that impair the heart's ability to function correctly.Types of Cardiac EmergenciesThe most common types of cardiac emergencies include Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac arrest, and heart failure.Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)...
01:23Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation III: AED Use
Introduction to AEDAn Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a portable medical device that analyzes the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, delivers an electrical shock to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). SCA occurs when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating, leading to a loss of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. In such emergencies, time is of the essence, and using an AED, combined with Cardiopulmonary...
01:29Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM, is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy without ventricular dilation. It is more common in men and is typically diagnosed in young, athletic adults.EtiologyHCM is primarily genetic and is caused by mutations in genes encoding sarcomeric proteins. Researchers have identified over 1400 mutations across at least 11 different genes. Among these, the most frequently occurring mutations are found in the...