Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 1, 2025

Lumped-Parameter and Finite Element Modeling of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Published on: February 13, 2021
For the love of muscles: a bodybuilder with complicated left ventricular heart failure
Lidwina De Turck1, Tom Sarens2, Laurens Veldeman3
1Department of Internal Medicine, AZ Sint-Blasius, Dendermonde, Belgium.
Abstract:
Anabolic-androgenic steroid misuse is associated with cardiovascular toxicity. We report a unique case of a 46-year-old male bodybuilder with nonischemic systolic heart failure complicated with a large left ventricular thrombus and multiple emboli presumably caused by long-term abuse of anabolic steroids. The patient experienced almost full recovery after cessation of anabolic steroid use, initiation of oral anticoagulation and guideline-directed heart failure medical therapy. This case illustrates the importance of early recognition and appropriate medical management of anabolic-androgenic steroid induced cardiomyopathy.
Related Concept Videos
Heart Failure II: Pathophysiology
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Imbalances in Cardiac Output
CHF can occur due to the failure of either side of the heart. Left-side failure leads to pulmonary congestion—the right side continues to send...
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Pathophysiology of Heart Failure

