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Pericarditis in a collegiate basketball player
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Kentucky, Lexington, USA.
Summary
An uncommon cause of chest pain in athletes was identified as a rheumatologic disorder. Early diagnosis and treatment of connective tissue disease can be challenging but is crucial for managing symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Sports Medicine
- Cardiology
Background:
- Chest pain is a common complaint in athletes, with diverse potential etiologies.
- Rheumatologic conditions are an underrecognized cause of chest pain in this population.
Observation:
- A 17-year-old male athlete presented with recurrent pericarditis-induced chest pain.
- Clinical presentation and serological findings suggested an unspecified connective tissue disease.
Findings:
- Connective tissue diseases can manifest insidiously, making diagnosis difficult.
- Pericarditis can be an early sign of underlying rheumatologic disorders in young athletes.
Implications:
- Rheumatologic disorders should be considered in the differential diagnosis of exertional and non-exertional chest pain in athletes.
- Timely diagnosis and management of connective tissue diseases are essential for preventing long-term complications in athletic individuals.