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Estimating Bilateral Atrial Function by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Feature Tracking in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
08:10

Estimating Bilateral Atrial Function by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Feature Tracking in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Published on: July 20, 2022

Atrial fibrillation in athletes

Michael W Farrar, Douglas B Bogart, Scott S Chapman

    Missouri Medicine
    |August 17, 2006
    PubMed

    Insights

    This review examines atrial fibrillation (AF) in athletes. While some studies suggest a higher incidence in endurance athletes, recent data is debated, highlighting unique management challenges.

    Area of Science:

    • Cardiology
    • Sports Medicine
    • Exercise Physiology

    Background:

    • A physician presenting with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) and identifying other long-distance runner colleagues with lone AF prompted this review.
    • Initial literature suggested a higher incidence of AF in endurance and elite athletes.
    • Recent data has begun to question the established link between endurance sports and AF incidence.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To review the incidence, causes, implications, and management of atrial fibrillation in athletes.
    • To address the specific concerns and challenges in managing athletes diagnosed with AF.

    Main Methods:

    • Literature search focusing on atrial fibrillation in athletes.
    • Analysis of existing studies and recent data regarding AF in endurance athletes.
    • Review of clinical management strategies for athletes with AF.

    Main Results:

    • The incidence of AF in athletes is a complex and debated topic.
    • Endurance athletes may face unique considerations regarding AF diagnosis and management.
    • Management strategies for athletes with AF require careful, individualized approaches.

    Conclusions:

    • The relationship between athletic training and AF requires further investigation.
    • Athletes with AF present distinct clinical challenges.
    • Optimal management protocols for AF in athletes are still evolving.

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