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The effect of marathon cycling on renal function
G Neumayr1, R Pfister, H Hoertnagl
1Institute of Sports Medicine, University Clinics of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria. guenther.neymayr@sb-bruneck.it
International Journal of Sports Medicine
|April 2, 2003
Summary
Marathon cycling temporarily impairs renal function, causing elevated serum creatinine and urea levels. These changes, likely due to reduced renal perfusion, persist for at least 24 hours post-exercise.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Nephrology
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Strenuous long-term exercise can impact renal function.
- The specific effects of marathon cycling on kidney health remain largely uninvestigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess renal function changes in athletes after a competitive marathon cycling event.
Main Methods:
- Evaluated 38 male cyclists before, immediately after, and 24 hours post-Otztal Radmarathon.
- Monitored serum creatinine, urea, uric acid, creatinine clearance, hematocrit, and urine parameters.
- Assessed plasma volume and electrolyte balance.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in serum creatinine (20%), urea (54%), and uric acid (42%) post-race.
- Estimated creatinine clearance decreased by 18% for 24 hours.
- Reduced renal perfusion indicated by urea/creatinine ratio and fractional excretions; plasma volume increased by 10.8% during recovery.
Conclusions:
- Marathon cycling causes minimal, yet prolonged, renal function impairment.
- Reduced renal perfusion is the primary mechanism behind these transient kidney function alterations.
- Electrolyte balance and plasma volume were maintained, with minor proteinuria observed.