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Heart failure in an elite soccer player
M A Börjesson1, R Rosengren, M Aunes-Jansson
1Multidisciplinary Pain Center, Department of Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital/Ostra, 41685 Göteborg, Sweden. mats.borjesson@medfak.gu.se
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|April 2, 2003
Summary
Elite athletes can develop tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy even at moderate heart rates. Prompt diagnosis and radiofrequency catheter ablation can lead to complete recovery of heart function.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy (TIC) is a recognized condition, but often associated with higher heart rates.
- Elite athletes are typically considered resilient to cardiac stressors.
Observation:
- A case of sustained atrial tachycardia at 130 bpm in an elite athlete is presented.
- The athlete experienced significant impairment of systolic ventricular function.
- Palpitations were absent, delaying diagnosis.
Findings:
- This case demonstrates that even modest heart rates can trigger significant cardiomyopathy in athletes.
- Severe ventricular dysfunction can occur without preceding symptoms like palpitations.
- Successful radiofrequency catheter ablation led to complete recovery.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering TIC in athletes presenting with unexplained heart failure.
- Suggests that prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Underscores the effectiveness of radiofrequency catheter ablation for treating TIC in this population.