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Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Athletes
Aneil Malhotra1, Sanjay Sharma1
1Cardiology Clinical and Academic Group, St. George's University of London London, UK.
European Cardiology
|November 13, 2018
Summary
Differentiating hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) from physiological left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in young athletes is crucial. Accurate diagnosis prevents sudden cardiac death (SCD) and guides sports participation decisions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Sports Medicine
- Genetics
Background:
- Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in young individuals is a rare but devastating event.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a leading cause of SCD in athletes under 35.
- Distinguishing pathological HCM from physiological left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in athletes is challenging due to exercise-induced cardiac adaptations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature to aid in differentiating physiological LVH from HCM in young athletes.
- To highlight the importance of accurate diagnosis for athlete safety and management.
- To provide insights into the clinical features of HCM in athletic populations.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing studies comparing clinical findings in athletes with and without HCM.
- Analysis of diagnostic tools used to differentiate between physiological and pathological cardiac hypertrophy.
- Focus on emerging data regarding the clinical presentation of HCM in athletes.
Main Results:
- Physiological LVH in athletes can mimic HCM, complicating diagnosis.
- Subtle clinical features are key to differentiating between the two conditions.
- Athletes with HCM may present differently than sedentary individuals.
Conclusions:
- Accurate differentiation of LVH from HCM is critical for young athletes.
- Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate restrictions from sports or, conversely, place athletes at risk of SCD.
- Further research focusing on HCM in athletes is needed to refine diagnostic strategies.
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