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Masilamani MSJ, Cannon B. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and competitive sports: let 'em play? Curr Opin Cardiol 2024; 39:308-314. [PMID: 38743663 DOI: 10.1097/hco.0000000000001148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is one of the most common cardiovascular genetic conditions. Although most patients with HCM typically do well clinically, there is a small but real incidence of sudden cardiac death. A diagnosis of HCM was previously a reason for complete exclusion in sports, particularly competitive sports.However, many of these recommendations are based on expert consensus, and much data has been published in the last decade furthering the scientific knowledge in this area, and allowing athletes who may have been previously excluded the potential to participate in strenuous activities and competitive sports. RECENT FINDINGS With recent publications on participation in sports with HCM, as well as an emphasis on shared decision-making, more athletes with HCM are participating in competitive sports, even at a professional level. Even contact sports in the presence of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator are no longer mutually exclusive in the current era. SUMMARY Previous guidelines were likely overly restrictive for patients with HCM. Although there is a risk of sudden death that cannot be ignored, the potential for shared decision making as well as medical guidance are entering a new era in all aspects of medicine, particularly in sports participation.
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Edwards JJ, Compton C, Chatrath N, Petek BJ, Baggish A, Börjesson M, Chung E, Corrado D, Drezner JA, Gati S, Gray B, Kim J, La Gerche A, Malhotra A, Marijon E, Papadakis M, Pelliccia A, Phelan D, Semsarian C, Sharma S, Sharma R, O'Driscoll JM, Harmon KG. International Criteria for Reporting Study Quality for Sudden Cardiac Arrest/Death Tool. J Am Heart Assoc 2024; 13:e033723. [PMID: 38780180 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.033723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies reporting on the incidence of sudden cardiac arrest and/or death (SCA/D) in athletes commonly lack methodological and reporting rigor, which has implications for screening and preventative policy in sport. To date, there are no tools designed for assessing study quality in studies investigating the incidence of SCA/D in athletes. METHODS AND RESULTS The International Criteria for Reporting Study Quality for Sudden Cardiac Arrest/Death tool (IQ-SCA/D) was developed following a Delphi process. Sixteen international experts in sports cardiology were identified and invited. Experts voted on each domain with subsequent moderated discussion for successive rounds until consensus was reached for a final tool. Interobserver agreement between a novice, intermediate, and expert observer was then assessed from the scoring of 22 relevant studies using weighted and unweighted κ analyses. The final IQ-SCA/D tool comprises 8 domains with a summated score of a possible 22. Studies are categorized as low, intermediate, and high quality with summated IQ-SCA/D scores of ≤11, 12 to 16, and ≥17, respectively. Interrater agreement was "substantial" between all 3 observers for summated IQ-SCA/D scores and study categorization. CONCLUSIONS The IQ-SCA/D is an expert consensus tool for assessing the study quality of research reporting the incidence of SCA/D in athletes. This tool may be used to assist researchers, reviewers, journal editors, and readers in contextualizing the methodological quality of different studies with varying athlete SCA/D incidence estimates. Importantly, the IQ-SCA/D also provides an expert-informed framework to support and guide appropriate design and reporting practices in future SCA/D incidence trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie J Edwards
- School of Psychology and Life Sciences Canterbury Christ Church University Kent UK
| | - Claire Compton
- Department of Cardiology South Tees Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, The James Cook University Hospital Middlesbrough UK
| | - Nikhil Chatrath
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University of London London UK
| | - Bradley J Petek
- Division of Cardiology Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | - Aaron Baggish
- Cardiovascular Performance Program Massachusetts General Hospital Boston MA
| | - Mats Börjesson
- Center for Lifestyle Intervention, Medicine, Geriatrics and Emergency Department Sahlgrenska University Hospital Göteborg Sweden
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg Göteborg Sweden
| | - Eugene Chung
- University of Michigan, West Michigan Program, Cardiac Electrophysiology Service, Sports Cardiology Clinic, Michigan Medicine Ann Arbor MI
| | - Domenico Corrado
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health University of Padova Padova Italy
| | - Jonathan A Drezner
- Department of Family Medicine, Center for Sports Cardiology University of Washington Seattle WA
| | - Sabiha Gati
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London London UK
- Department of Cardiology Royal Brompton Hospital London London UK
| | - Belinda Gray
- Agnes Ginges Centre for Molecular Cardiology Centenary Institute New South Wales Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Sydney New South Wales Australia
- Department of Cardiology Royal Prince Alfred Hospital New South Wales Australia
| | - Jonathan Kim
- Emory School of Medicine Emory Clinical Cardiovascular Research Institute Atlanta GA
| | - Andre La Gerche
- Clinical Research Domain Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Alfred Centre Melbourne Victoria Australia
- National Centre for Sports Cardiology Fitzroy Victoria Australia
- Cardiology Department St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne Fitzroy Victoria Australia
| | - Aneil Malhotra
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University of London London UK
- Institute of Sport Manchester Metropolitan University and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust Manchester UK
| | - Eloi Marijon
- Paris Cardiovascular Research Center INSERM U970, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou Paris France
| | - Michael Papadakis
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University of London London UK
| | | | - Dermot Phelan
- Sports Cardiology Center, Sanger Heart and Vascular Institute, Atrium Health Charlotte NC
| | - Chris Semsarian
- Agnes Ginges Centre for Molecular Cardiology Centenary Institute New South Wales Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences University of Sydney New South Wales Australia
- Department of Cardiology Royal Prince Alfred Hospital New South Wales Australia
| | - Sanjay Sharma
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's University of London London UK
| | - Rajan Sharma
- Department of Cardiology St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Tooting, London UK
| | - Jamie M O'Driscoll
- School of Psychology and Life Sciences Canterbury Christ Church University Kent UK
- Department of Cardiology St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Tooting, London UK
| | - Kimberly G Harmon
- Department of Family Medicine, Center for Sports Cardiology University of Washington Seattle WA
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Riccio A, Shilling AM. Unique Medical Considerations for the Athlete Undergoing Anesthesia. Anesthesiol Clin 2024; 42:185-201. [PMID: 38705670 DOI: 10.1016/j.anclin.2023.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Athletes are among a unique group such that they may possess a serious underlying pathologic condition that may often go unnoticed given their high caliber of physical fitness. However, several considerations should be investigated, especially in the perioperative period, in order to minimize morbidity and mortality. Namely, cardiac pathologic condition can result in sudden death, and pulmonary pathologic condition may affect airway and respiratory management. Moreover, patients undergoing orthopedic surgery are at the highest risk for venous thromboembolism. Regardless of the condition, it is crucial to be vigilant and explore the unique medical considerations for the athlete undergoing anesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashley M Shilling
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Virginia Health System, MDPO Box 800710, Charlottesville VA 22908, USA.
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Barry M, Sylla IS, Balde MD, Bangoura M, Camara I. [Place of the electrocardiogram in the visit of non-contra-indication to the practice of competitive sports between the ages of 12 and 35 : Survey of physicians who are members of the Guinean Association of Sports Physicians]. Ann Cardiol Angeiol (Paris) 2024; 73:101762. [PMID: 38733860 DOI: 10.1016/j.ancard.2024.101762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION An electrocardiogram (ECG), combined with a well-conducted clinical examination, is more effective than the clinical examination alone in detecting underlying cardiac pathologies in athletes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of ECGs by physicians who are members of the Guinean Association of Sports Physicians, during the non-contraindication visit for competitive sports between the ages of 12 and 35. METHODOLOGY We conducted a web-survey from July 15 to August 15, 2023. A survey form was created on "Google Docs" and pre-tested. It was then broadcast on all the communication networks used by these doctors. The data were secured using "Google Drive" software. Analyses were performed using SPSS version 20 software. RESULTS Of the 51 included, 74.51% said they had received at least one training session on ECG interpretation for athletes. All of them either requested or performed an ECG at least once in a while, as part of the check-up for non-contraindication to competitive sport. The ECG was systematic, according to 72.55% of doctors. Three quarters referred to a sports cardiologist in the event of an abnormal ECG, 66.67% to a cardiology resident and 58.82% to a cardiologist. In the absence of an ECG, the presence of functional signs on exertion, the notion of a family history of cardiovascular disease and the presence of at least two cardiovascular risk factors were the main reasons for seeking an opinion. CONCLUSION A resting ECG is carried out almost systematically by doctors who are members of the Guinean Association of Sports Doctors, as part of the check-up for non-contraindication to practising sport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamadou Barry
- Service de cardiologie hôpital National Ignace DEEN, Conakry, Guinée.
| | | | | | - Mohamed Bangoura
- Service de cardiologie hôpital National Ignace DEEN, Conakry, Guinée
| | - Ibrahima Camara
- Service de médecine général B Rhumatologie hôpital National Ignace DEEN, Conakry, Guinée
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Weizman O, Marijon E. [Physical activity to reduce cardiovascular risk -Why deprive yourself ?]. Ann Cardiol Angeiol (Paris) 2024; 73:101764. [PMID: 38723317 DOI: 10.1016/j.ancard.2024.101764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Sports-related sudden death is an uncommon event, affecting mainly middle-aged men who practice leisure sports, and is related to unknown coronary artery disease. In athletes, cardiac causes are also predominant, with a greater proportion of structural and electrical heart disease. If first-aid resuscitation measures are initiated, survival easily exceeds 50%, and this is an excellent educational illustration of how to improve the prognosis of non-sport-related cardiac arrest. Prevention of a sport-related cardiovascular event remains difficult, and relies on clinical examination, questioning (including family history) and resting ECG in participants >35 years old. The non-contraindication visit is also an opportunity to pass on to the patient the rules of good sports "hygiene" and life-saving gestures in the event of sudden death during sport in one of the partners (and the importance of regularly educating oneself in life-saving gestures...).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eloi Marijon
- European Georges Pompidou Hospital, Paris, France.
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Ferrari F, da Silveira AD, Ziegelmann PK, Aleixo H, Dilda GD, Emed LGM, Magalhães FCO, Cardoso FB, da Silva HC, Guerra FEF, Soares LG, Bassan F, Braga F, Herdy AH, Froelicher V, Stein R. Imaging associations enhance the understanding of ECG abnormalities in male Brazilian football players: findings from the B-Pro Foot ECG study. Br J Sports Med 2024; 58:598-605. [PMID: 38621858 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-108053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the prevalence of abnormal ECG findings and their association with imaging results in male Brazilian football players. METHODS The 'B-Pro Foot ECG' is a multicentre observational study conducted in 82 Brazilian professional clubs. It analysed 6125 players aged 15-35 years (2496 white, 2004 mixed-race and 1625 black individuals) who underwent cardiovascular screening from 2002 to 2023. All ECGs were reviewed by two experienced cardiologists in the athlete's care. Those with abnormal findings underwent further investigations, including a transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE). Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) was subsequently performed based on TTE findings or clinical suspicion. RESULTS In total, 180 (3%) players had abnormal ECGs and 176 (98%) showed normal TTE results. Athletes aged 26-35 years had a higher prevalence of abnormal ECGs than younger athletes (15-25 years). Black players had a higher prevalence of T-wave inversion (TWI) in the inferior leads than white players (2.6% vs 1.4%; p=0.005), as well as in V5 (2.9%) and V6 (2.1%) compared with white (1.2% and 1.0%; p<0.001) and mixed-race (1.5% and 1.2%; p<0.05) players, respectively. TTE parameters were similar across ethnicities. However, four out of 75 players with inferolateral TWI showed abnormal TTEs and CMR findings consistent with cardiomyopathies. CMR also showed cardiomyopathies or myocarditis in four players with inferolateral TWI and normal TTEs. In total, nine (0.1%) athletes were diagnosed with cardiac diseases and were followed for 40±30 months, with no cardiac events documented. CONCLUSION This study found a 3% prevalence of abnormal ECGs in male Brazilian football players. Inferolateral TWI was associated with cardiac pathologies confirmed by CMR, even in athletes with a normal TTE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe Ferrari
- Graduate Program in Cardiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Exercise Cardiology Research Group (CardioEx), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Anderson D da Silveira
- Graduate Program in Cardiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Exercise Cardiology Research Group (CardioEx), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Science, Health and Performance Department, Grêmio Foot-Ball Porto Alegrense, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Patrícia K Ziegelmann
- Graduate Program in Cardiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Epidemiology, Department of Statistics, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Haroldo Aleixo
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz G M Emed
- Instituto de Neurologia de Curitiba, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Luciano G Soares
- Clínica Biocorfit Reabilitação Cardíaca Pulmonar e Metabólica, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Fernando Bassan
- Instituto Nacional de Cardiologia, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Braga
- Laboratorio de Performance Humana, Universidade Estadual do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Artur H Herdy
- Instituto de Cardiologia de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Victor Froelicher
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Ricardo Stein
- Graduate Program in Cardiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Exercise Cardiology Research Group (CardioEx), Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
- Internal Medicine Department, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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Kocsis L, Pap Z, László SA, Gábor-Kelemen H, Szabó IA, Heidenhoffer E, Frigy A. Exercise-Induced Electrocardiographic Changes in Healthy Young Males with Early Repolarization Pattern. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:980. [PMID: 38786277 PMCID: PMC11119175 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14100980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Exercise-induced modifications in ECG parameters among individuals with an early repolarization pattern (ERP) have not been evaluated in detail. We aimed to assess this phenomenon, with potential associations with arrhythmogenesis. Methods: Twenty-three young, healthy males with ERP (ERP+) participated in this study, alongside a control group, which consisted of nineteen healthy males without ERP (ERP-). ECGs at baseline, at peak exercise (Bruce protocol), and during the recovery phase were analyzed and compared between the two groups. Results: The treadmill test demonstrated strong cardiovascular fitness, with similar chronotropic and pressor responses in both groups. In the baseline ECGs, the QRS complex and the QT interval were shorter in the ERP+ group. During exercise, the P-wave duration was significantly longer and the QRS was narrower in the ERP+ group. In the recovery phase, there was a longer P wave and a narrower QRS in the ERP+ group. During the treadmill test, the J wave disappeared or did not meet the criteria required for ERP diagnosis. Conclusions: The slowed intra-atrial conduction found during exercise could be predictive of atrial arrhythmogenesis in the setting of ERP. The disappearing of J waves during exercise, due to increased sympathetic activity, has potential clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loránd Kocsis
- Department of Cardiology, Clinical County Hospital Mures, 540103 Targu Mures, Romania; (L.K.); (H.G.-K.); (I.A.S.); (E.H.); (A.F.)
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures, 540103 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Zsuzsanna Pap
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures, 540103 Targu Mures, Romania
| | | | - Hunor Gábor-Kelemen
- Department of Cardiology, Clinical County Hospital Mures, 540103 Targu Mures, Romania; (L.K.); (H.G.-K.); (I.A.S.); (E.H.); (A.F.)
| | - István Adorján Szabó
- Department of Cardiology, Clinical County Hospital Mures, 540103 Targu Mures, Romania; (L.K.); (H.G.-K.); (I.A.S.); (E.H.); (A.F.)
| | - Erhard Heidenhoffer
- Department of Cardiology, Clinical County Hospital Mures, 540103 Targu Mures, Romania; (L.K.); (H.G.-K.); (I.A.S.); (E.H.); (A.F.)
| | - Attila Frigy
- Department of Cardiology, Clinical County Hospital Mures, 540103 Targu Mures, Romania; (L.K.); (H.G.-K.); (I.A.S.); (E.H.); (A.F.)
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology of Targu Mures, 540103 Targu Mures, Romania
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McKinney J, Isserow M, Wong J, Isserow S, Moulson N. New Insights and Recommendations for Athletes With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Can J Cardiol 2024; 40:921-933. [PMID: 38369259 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2024.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) has long been considered to be a high-risk cardiac condition for which exercise was thought to increase the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). This was founded in part by initial autopsy studies reporting HCM to be a leading medical cause of SCD among young athletes. Most forms of competitive sport and exercise were therefore thought to increase the risk of SCD to a prohibitive level. Resultant expert consensus guideline recommendations universally restricted athletes with HCM from participation in moderate- to vigourous-intensity sport and exercise in a binary "yes" or "no" clinical decision making process with the goal of reducing the risk of sports-related SCD. HCM is, however, a heterogeneous genetic condition with variable penetrance and risk. The degree to which sports and exercise increases the risk of SCD at an individual patient level continues to be an area of clinical uncertainty. Emerging data and clinical experience from the past several decades have provided important new insights into exercise-related risks and have brought into question the appropriateness of overly restrictive binary clinical decision making for exercise recommendations in HCM. This includes an improved understanding of the overall prevalence of HCM in the general population, improved observational estimates of the risk of SCD related to continued sport and exercise participation, and a general shift toward improved patient-centred approaches to care through shared decision making processes. The rules by which the game is played may be changing for athletes with HCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- James McKinney
- SportsCardiologyBC, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Megan Isserow
- SportsCardiologyBC, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Justin Wong
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Saul Isserow
- SportsCardiologyBC, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nathaniel Moulson
- SportsCardiologyBC, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Greciano Calero P, Escribá Bori S, Costa Orvay JA, González Pons N, Martín Pérez MDC, Cardona Alfonseca D, Nogales Velázquez C, Verd Vallespir S, Tur Salom AE, Chiandetti A, Navarro Noguera M, Grau Blanch A, Rotger Genestar MM, Mambié Meléndez M, Fernández Hidalgo M, Seguí Llinas JM, Martorell Bon L, Arestuche Aguilar P, Garrido Conde B, Sánchez Grao MDV, Sarraff Trujillo K, Muntaner Alonso A, Grimalt Ferragut C, Soriano Marco A, Gómez Rojas V, Pol Serra J. Can we screen for heart disease in children at public health centres? A multicentre observational study of screening for heart disease with a risk of sudden death in children. Eur J Pediatr 2024; 183:2411-2420. [PMID: 38459131 PMCID: PMC11035459 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-024-05489-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Sudden cardiac death in children is a rare event, but of great social significance. Generally, it is related to heart disease with a risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD), which may occur with cardiovascular symptoms and/or electrocardiographic markers; thus, a primary care paediatrician (PCP) could detect them. Therefore, we proposed a study that assesses how to put into practice and conduct a cardiovascular assessment within the routine healthy-child check-ups at six and twelve years of age; that reflects cardiovascular signs and symptoms, as well as the electrocardiographic alterations that children with a risk of SCD in the selected population present; and that assesses the PCP's skill at electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation. In collaboration with PCPs, primary care nurses, and paediatric cardiologists, an observational, descriptive, multicentre, cross-sectional study was carried out in the Balearic Islands (Spain), from April 2021 to January 2022, inclusive. The PCPs gathered patient data through forms (medical record, electrocardiogram, and physical examination) and sent them to the investigator, together with the informed consent document and electrocardiogram. The investigator passed the electrocardiogram on to the paediatric cardiologists for reading, in an identical form to those the paediatricians had filled in. The variables were collected, and a descriptive analysis performed. Three paediatric cardiologists, twelve PCPs, and nine nurses from seven public health centres took part. They collected the data from 641 patients, but 233 patients did not participate (in 81.11% due to the PCP's workload). Therefore, the study coverage was around 64%, representing the quotient of the total number of patients who participated, divided by the total number of patients who were eligible for the study. We detected 30 patients with electrocardiographic alterations compatible with SCD risk. Nine of these had been examined by a paediatric cardiologist at some time (functional murmur in 8/9), five had reported shortness of breath with exercise, and four had reported a family history of sudden death. The physical examination of all the patients whose ECG was compatible with a risk of SCD was normal. Upon analysing to what extent the ECG results of the PCP and the paediatric cardiologist agreed, the percentage of agreement in the final interpretation (normal/altered) was 91.9%, while Cohen's kappa coefficient was 31.2% (CI 95%: 13.8-48.6%). The sensitivity of the ECG interpretation by the PCP to detect an ECG compatible with a risk of SCD was 29% and the positive predictive value 45%. Conclusions: This study lays the foundations for future SCD risk screening in children, performed by PCPs. However, previously, it would be important to optimise their training in reading and interpreting paediatric ECGs. What is Known: • In Spain at present, there is a programme in place to detect heart disease with a risk of sudden death [1], but it targets only children who are starting on or are doing a physical activity as a federated sport. Implementing such screening programmes has proven effective in several countries [2]. However, several studies showed that the incidence of sudden cardiac death is no higher in children competing in sport activities than in those who do not do any sport [3]. This poses an ethical conflict, because at present, children who do not do any federated sport are excluded from screening. According to the revised literature, so far, only in two studies did they screen the child population at schools, and in both, they successfully detected patients with heart disease associated to the risk of sudden death [4, 5]. We have found no studies where the screening of these features was included within the routine healthy-child check-ups by primary care paediatricians. What is New: • We did not know whether-in our setting, at present-the primary care paediatrician could perform a screening method within the routine healthy-child check-ups, in order to detect presumably healthy children at risk of sudden cardiac death, as they present one of the SCD risks. In this regard, we proposed our project: to assess how to put into practice and conduct a cardiovascular assessment via SCD risk screening in the healthy child population by primary care paediatricians and appraise primary care paediatricians' skills in identifying the electrocardiographic alterations associated with SCD risk. The ultimate intention of this pilot study was to make it possible, in the future, to design and justify a study aimed at universalising cardiovascular screening and achieving a long-term decrease in sudden cardiac death events in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Greciano Calero
- Children's Heart Unit, Paediatric Department, Son Espases University Hospital, Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain.
| | - Silvia Escribá Bori
- Children's Heart Unit, Paediatric Department, Son Espases University Hospital, Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Costa Orvay
- Children's Heart Unit, Paediatric Department, Can Misses Hospital, Ibiza, Balearic Islands, Spain
| | - Nina González Pons
- Children's Heart Unit, Paediatric Department, Mateu Orfila General Hospital, Mahon, Balearic Islands, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Anna Grau Blanch
- Es Mercadal Public Health Centre, Es Mercadal, Balearic Islands, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Juan Pol Serra
- S'Escorxador Public Health Centre, Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain
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10
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Graziano F, Bondarev S, Corrado D, Zorzi A. The Challenges of Screening Master Athletes. Cardiology 2024:1-4. [PMID: 38574487 DOI: 10.1159/000538326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Graziano
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Sergei Bondarev
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Domenico Corrado
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zorzi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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11
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Galizia MS, Attili AK, Truesdell WR, Smith ED, Helms AS, Sulaiman AMA, Madamanchi C, Agarwal PP. Imaging Features of Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathies. Radiographics 2024; 44:e230154. [PMID: 38512728 PMCID: PMC10995833 DOI: 10.1148/rg.230154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a genetic disease characterized by replacement of ventricular myocardium with fibrofatty tissue, predisposing the patient to ventricular arrhythmias and/or sudden cardiac death. Most cases of ACM are associated with pathogenic variants in genes that encode desmosomal proteins, an important cell-to-cell adhesion complex present in both the heart and skin tissue. Although ACM was first described as a disease predominantly of the right ventricle, it is now acknowledged that it can also primarily involve the left ventricle or both ventricles. The original right-dominant phenotype is traditionally diagnosed using the 2010 task force criteria, a multifactorial algorithm divided into major and minor criteria consisting of structural criteria based on two-dimensional echocardiographic, cardiac MRI, or right ventricular angiographic findings; tissue characterization based on endomyocardial biopsy results; repolarization and depolarization abnormalities based on electrocardiographic findings; arrhythmic features; and family history. Shortfalls in the task force criteria due to the modern understanding of the disease have led to development of the Padua criteria, which include updated criteria for diagnosis of the right-dominant phenotype and new criteria for diagnosis of the left-predominant and biventricular phenotypes. In addition to incorporating cardiac MRI findings of ventricular dilatation, systolic dysfunction, and regional wall motion abnormalities, the new Padua criteria emphasize late gadolinium enhancement at cardiac MRI as a key feature in diagnosis and imaging-based tissue characterization. Conditions to consider in the differential diagnosis of the right-dominant phenotype include various other causes of right ventricular dilatation such as left-to-right shunts and variants of normal right ventricular anatomy that can be misinterpreted as abnormalities. The left-dominant phenotype can mimic myocarditis at imaging and clinical examination. Additional considerations for the differential diagnosis of ACM, particularly for the left-dominant phenotype, include sarcoidosis and dilated cardiomyopathy. ©RSNA, 2024 Test Your Knowledge questions for this article are available in the supplemental material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio S. Galizia
- From the Department of Radiology (M.S.G., A.K.A., W.R.T., P.P.A.) and
Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine (E.D.S.,
A.S.H., A.M.A.S., C.M.), Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 1500 E
Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Anil K. Attili
- From the Department of Radiology (M.S.G., A.K.A., W.R.T., P.P.A.) and
Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine (E.D.S.,
A.S.H., A.M.A.S., C.M.), Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 1500 E
Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - William R. Truesdell
- From the Department of Radiology (M.S.G., A.K.A., W.R.T., P.P.A.) and
Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine (E.D.S.,
A.S.H., A.M.A.S., C.M.), Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 1500 E
Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Eric D. Smith
- From the Department of Radiology (M.S.G., A.K.A., W.R.T., P.P.A.) and
Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine (E.D.S.,
A.S.H., A.M.A.S., C.M.), Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 1500 E
Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Adam S. Helms
- From the Department of Radiology (M.S.G., A.K.A., W.R.T., P.P.A.) and
Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine (E.D.S.,
A.S.H., A.M.A.S., C.M.), Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 1500 E
Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Abdulbaset M. A. Sulaiman
- From the Department of Radiology (M.S.G., A.K.A., W.R.T., P.P.A.) and
Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine (E.D.S.,
A.S.H., A.M.A.S., C.M.), Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 1500 E
Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Chaitanya Madamanchi
- From the Department of Radiology (M.S.G., A.K.A., W.R.T., P.P.A.) and
Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine (E.D.S.,
A.S.H., A.M.A.S., C.M.), Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 1500 E
Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Prachi P. Agarwal
- From the Department of Radiology (M.S.G., A.K.A., W.R.T., P.P.A.) and
Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine (E.D.S.,
A.S.H., A.M.A.S., C.M.), Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, 1500 E
Medical Center Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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12
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Graziano F, Schiavon M, Cipriani A, Savalla F, De Gaspari M, Bauce B, Rizzo S, Calore C, Thiene G, Paiaro S, Basso C, Zorzi A. Causes of sudden cardiac arrest and death and the diagnostic yield of sport preparticipation screening in children. Br J Sports Med 2024; 58:255-260. [PMID: 38233088 PMCID: PMC10958295 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2023-107357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evidence on the increased risk of sports-related sudden cardiac arrest and death (SCA/D) and the potential benefit of cardiovascular preparticipation screening (PPS) in children is limited. We assessed the burden and circumstances of SCA/D and the diagnostic yield of cardiovascular PPS in children aged 8-15 years. METHODS Data on the incidence and causes of SCA/D from 2011 to 2020 were obtained from the Veneto region (Italy) sudden death registry, hospital records and local press. During the same period, we assessed the results of annual PPS in 25 251 young competitive athletes aged 8-15 years who underwent 58 185 evaluations (mean 2.3/athlete) in Padua, Italy. RESULTS Over 10 years, 26 SCA/D occurred in children aged 8-15 years in the Veneto region: 6 in athletes (incidence 0.7/100 000/year, all ≥12 years) versus 20 in non-athletes (0.7/100 000/year, 17/20 ≥12 years). In total, 4/6 athletes versus 1/20 non-athletes survived. The cause of SCA/D remained unexplained in four athletes and in nine non-athletes. No athlete suffered SCA/D from structural diseases potentially identifiable by PPS. The incidence of SCA/D in athletes and non-athletes was 0.2/100 000/year in the 8-11 years group versus 1.3/100 000/year in the 12-15 years group. PPS identified 26 new diagnoses of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) at risk of SCA/D, more often in children ≥12 years old (0.06%/evaluation) than <12 years old (0.02%/evaluation, p=0.02). Among athletes with a negative PPS, two suffered unexplained SCA/D during follow-up, one during exercise. CONCLUSIONS In children aged 8-15 years, the incidence of SCA/D and the yield of PPS for identifying at-risk CVD were both substantially higher in those ≥12 years, suggesting that systematic PPS may be more useful beyond this age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Graziano
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padova, Veneto, Italy
- Department of Sports Medicine, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Alberto Cipriani
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | | | - Monica De Gaspari
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | - Barbara Bauce
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | - Stefania Rizzo
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | - Chiara Calore
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | - Gaetano Thiene
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | | | - Cristina Basso
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padova, Veneto, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zorzi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padova, Veneto, Italy
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13
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Sciarra L, Golia P, Scarà A, Robles AG, De Maio M, Palamà Z, Borrelli A, Di Roma M, D'Arielli A, Calò L, Gallina S, Ricci F, Delise P, Zorzi A, Nesti M, Romano S, Cavarretta E. Electrocardiographic predictors of left ventricular scar in athletes with right bundle branch block premature ventricular beats. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2024; 31:486-495. [PMID: 38198223 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwae010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Right bundle branch block (RBBB) morphology non-sustained ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) have been associated with the presence of non-ischaemic left ventricular scar (NLVS) in athletes. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to identify clinical and electrocardiogram (ECG) predictors of the presence of NLVS in athletes with RBBB VAs. METHODS AND RESULTS Sixty-four athletes [median age 39 (24-53) years, 79% males] with non-sustained RBBB VAs underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) with late gadolinium enhancement in order to exclude the presence of a concealed structural heart disease. Thirty-six athletes (56%) showed NLVS at CMR and were assigned to the NLVS positive group, whereas 28 athletes (44%) to the NLVS negative group. Family history of cardiomyopathy and seven different ECG variables were statistically more prevalent in the NLVS positive group. At univariate analysis, seven ECG variables (low QRS voltages in limb leads, negative T waves in inferior leads, negative T waves in limb leads I-aVL, negative T waves in precordial leads V4-V6, presence of left posterior fascicular block, presence of pathologic Q waves, and poor R-wave progression in right precordial leads) proved to be statistically associated with the finding of NLVS; these were grouped together in a score. A score ≥2 was proved to be the optimal cut-off point, identifying NLVS athletes in 92% of cases and showing the best accuracy (86% sensitivity and 100% specificity, respectively). However, a cut-off ≥1 correctly identified all patients with NLVS (absence of false negatives). CONCLUSION In athletes with RBBB morphology non-sustained VAs, specific ECG abnormalities at 12-lead ECG can help in detecting subjects with NLVS at CMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Sciarra
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Life and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 Coppito (AQ), Italy
| | - Paolo Golia
- Department of Cardiology, Policlinico Casilino Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Scarà
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Life and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 Coppito (AQ), Italy
- Department of Cardiology, San Carlo di Nancy Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Gianluca Robles
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Life and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 Coppito (AQ), Italy
| | - Melissa De Maio
- Department of Cardiology, Policlinico Casilino Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Zefferino Palamà
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Life and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 Coppito (AQ), Italy
| | - Alessio Borrelli
- Department of Cardiology, San Carlo di Nancy Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Mauro Di Roma
- Department of Radiology, Policlinico Casilino Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto D'Arielli
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Life and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 Coppito (AQ), Italy
| | - Leonardo Calò
- Department of Cardiology, Policlinico Casilino Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabina Gallina
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Gabriele d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Ricci
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, Gabriele d'Annunzio University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Pietro Delise
- Division of Cardiology, Hospital 'P. Pederzoli', Peschiera del Garda 37019, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zorzi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, Padova 35121, Italy
| | - Martina Nesti
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Life and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 Coppito (AQ), Italy
- Fondazione Toscana Gabriele Monasterio, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi, 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Silvio Romano
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Life and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, piazzale Salvatore Tommasi 1, 67100 Coppito (AQ), Italy
| | - Elena Cavarretta
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, corso della Repubblica 79, 04100 Latina, Italy
- Mediterranea Cardiocentro, Via Orazio, 2, 80122 Napoli, Italy
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14
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Reittinger AM, Jackson LB, Dean PN. Preparticipation Cardiac Evaluation from the Pediatric Perspective. Card Electrophysiol Clin 2024; 16:1-14. [PMID: 38280809 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccep.2023.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Each year millions of children and adolescents undergo sports preparticipation evaluations (PPEs) before participating in organized sports. A primary aim of the PPE is to screen for risk factors associated with sudden cardiac death. This article is designed to summarize the current thoughts on the PPE with a specific slant toward the pediatric and early adolescent evaluation and how these evaluations may differ from those in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M Reittinger
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, 1204 West Main Street, Battle Building, 6th Floor, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Lanier B Jackson
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, 10 McClennan Banks Drive, MSC 915, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
| | - Peter N Dean
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, 1204 West Main Street, Battle Building, 6th Floor, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA.
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15
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Asatryan B, Murray B, Gasperetti A, McClellan R, Barth AS. Unraveling Complexities in Genetically Elusive Long QT Syndrome. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2024; 17:e012356. [PMID: 38264885 DOI: 10.1161/circep.123.012356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
Genetic testing has become standard of care for patients with long QT syndrome (LQTS), providing diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic information for both probands and their family members. However, up to a quarter of patients with LQTS do not have identifiable Mendelian pathogenic variants in the currently known LQTS-associated genes. This absence of genetic confirmation, intriguingly, does not lessen the severity of LQTS, with the prognosis in these gene-elusive patients with unequivocal LQTS mirroring genotype-positive patients in the limited data available. Such a conundrum instigates an exploration into the causes of corrected QT interval (QTc) prolongation in these cases, unveiling a broad spectrum of potential scenarios and mechanisms. These include multiple environmental influences on QTc prolongation, exercise-induced repolarization abnormalities, and the profound implications of the constantly evolving nature of genetic testing and variant interpretation. In addition, the rapid advances in genetics have the potential to uncover new causal genes, and polygenic risk factors may aid in the diagnosis of high-risk patients. Navigating this multifaceted landscape requires a systematic approach and expert knowledge, integrating the dynamic nature of genetics and patient-specific influences for accurate diagnosis, management, and counseling of patients. The role of a subspecialized expert cardiogenetic clinic is paramount in evaluation to navigate this complexity. Amid these intricate aspects, this review outlines potential causes of gene-elusive LQTS. It also provides an outline for the evaluation of patients with negative and inconclusive genetic test results and underscores the need for ongoing adaptation and reassessment in our understanding of LQTS, as the complexities of gene-elusive LQTS are increasingly deciphered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babken Asatryan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Brittney Murray
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Alessio Gasperetti
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Rebecca McClellan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Andreas S Barth
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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16
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Maron MS, Rowin EJ, Maron BJ. The Paradigm of Sudden Death Prevention in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Am J Cardiol 2024; 212S:S64-S76. [PMID: 38368038 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2023.10.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a relatively common and, often, inherited cardiac disease, once regarded as largely untreatable with ominous prognosis and, perhaps, most visibly as a common cause of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in the young. However, HCM is now more accurately considered a treatable disease with management options that significantly alter its clinical course. This is particularly true for SCD because the penetration of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators into HCM practice enables primary prevention device therapy that reliably terminates potentially lethal ventricular tachyarrhythmias (3% to 4%/year). This therapeutic advance is largely responsible for >10-fold decrease in the overall disease-related mortality to 0.5%/year, independent of patient age. A guideline-based clinical risk stratification algorithm has evolved, which included variables identifiable with cardiac magnetic resonance: ≥1 risk markers judged major within the clinical profile of an individual patient, associated with a measure of physician judgment and shared decision-making, can be sufficient to consider the recommendation of a prophylactic defibrillator implant. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator decisions using the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association traditional major risk marker strategy are associated with a 95% sensitivity for identifying those patients who subsequently experience appropriate therapy, albeit often 5 to 10+ years after implant but without heart failure deterioration or death after a device intervention. A mathematical SCD risk score proposed by European Society of Cardiology is associated with a relatively low sensitivity (33%) for predicting and preventing SCD events but with potential for less device overtreatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin S Maron
- Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, HCM Center, Burlington, Massachusetts.
| | - Ethan J Rowin
- Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, HCM Center, Burlington, Massachusetts
| | - Barry J Maron
- Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, HCM Center, Burlington, Massachusetts
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17
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Jacobsen AP, Blumenthal RS, Barouch LA. Did We Win? Curr Sports Med Rep 2024; 23:30-31. [PMID: 38315427 DOI: 10.1249/jsr.0000000000001134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Alan P Jacobsen
- Sports Cardiology Program, Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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18
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Sharykin AS, Badtieva VA. Sudden Death In Sports: Modern Concepts. KARDIOLOGIIA 2024; 64:80-87. [PMID: 38323448 DOI: 10.18087/cardio.2024.1.n2617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Regular physical activity provides significant health benefits and reduces the risk of premature death from any cause, including cardiovascular diseases (CVD). However, physical activity may provoke sudden cardiac death (SCD), especially in presence of unrecognized diseases. It is essential to identify risk factors that contribute to SCD in athletes and to implement effective prevention of such episodes. For this purpose, SCD registries are being created, medical terminology is being unified, and schedules of medical examination are being developed. The best strategy to combat SCD during sport activities is a combination of primary prevention by screening examination to identify athletes with CVD at risk and a proper planning of first aid measures during sports events, including the availability of an automatic external defibrillator on site.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Sharykin
- Moscow Center for Research and Practice in Medical Rehabilitation, Restorative and Sport Medicine; Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University
| | - V A Badtieva
- Moscow Center for Research and Practice in Medical Rehabilitation, Restorative and Sport Medicine; Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University
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19
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Finocchiaro G, Westaby J, Sheppard MN, Papadakis M, Sharma S. Sudden Cardiac Death in Young Athletes: JACC State-of-the-Art Review. J Am Coll Cardiol 2024; 83:350-370. [PMID: 38199713 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Athletes epitomize the healthiest segment of society. Despite this premise, sudden cardiac death may occur in apparently healthy athletes, attracting significant attention not only in the medical community but also in laypersons and media. The incidence of sudden cardiac death is variably reported, and epidemiological burden differs among cohorts. Athletes appear to be at risk of developing fatal arrhythmias when harboring a quiescent cardiac disorder. Primary cardiomyopathies, ion channelopathies, and coronary artery anomalies are prevalent causes in young individuals. Cardiac assessment of athletes can be challenging because these individuals exhibit a plethora of electrical, structural, and functional physiological changes that overlap with cardiac pathology. A diagnosis of cardiac disease in a young athlete is not necessarily an indication to terminate competition and sports participation. International guidelines, traditionally focused on disqualification of individuals with cardiac disease, have recently adopted a more liberal attitude, based on a careful assessment of the risk and on a shared-decision making approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gherardo Finocchiaro
- Cardiovascular Sciences Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Westaby
- Cardiovascular Sciences Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mary N Sheppard
- Cardiovascular Sciences Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Papadakis
- Cardiovascular Sciences Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sanjay Sharma
- Cardiovascular Sciences Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom.
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20
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Corrado D, Zorzi A. Declining Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death in Young Athletes. Circulation 2024; 149:91-94. [PMID: 37955558 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.123.067243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Corrado
- Cardiomyopathy and Sports Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac Thoracic and Vascular Science and Public Health, University of Padova, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zorzi
- Cardiomyopathy and Sports Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac Thoracic and Vascular Science and Public Health, University of Padova, Italy
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21
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Celeghin R, Risato G, Beffagna G, Cason M, Bueno Marinas M, Della Barbera M, Facchinello N, Giuliodori A, Brañas Casas R, Caichiolo M, Vettori A, Grisan E, Rizzo S, Dalla Valle L, Argenton F, Thiene G, Tiso N, Pilichou K, Basso C. A novel DSP zebrafish model reveals training- and drug-induced modulation of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy phenotypes. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:441. [PMID: 38057295 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01741-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (AC) is an inherited disorder characterized by progressive loss of the ventricular myocardium causing life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, syncope and sudden cardiac death in young and athletes. About 40% of AC cases carry one or more mutations in genes encoding for desmosomal proteins, including Desmoplakin (Dsp). We present here the first stable Dsp knock-out (KO) zebrafish line able to model cardiac alterations and cell signalling dysregulation, characteristic of the AC disease, on which environmental factors and candidate drugs can be tested. Our stable Dsp knock-out (KO) zebrafish line was characterized by cardiac alterations, oedema and bradycardia at larval stages. Histological analysis of mutated adult hearts showed reduced contractile structures and abnormal shape of the ventricle, with thinning of the myocardial layer, vessels dilation and presence of adipocytes within the myocardium. Moreover, TEM analysis revealed "pale", disorganized and delocalized desmosomes. Intensive physical training protocol caused a global worsening of the cardiac phenotype, accelerating the progression of the disease. Of note, we detected a decrease of Wnt/β-catenin signalling, recently associated with AC pathogenesis, as well as Hippo/YAP-TAZ and TGF-β pathway dysregulation. Pharmacological treatment of mutated larvae with SB216763, a Wnt/β-catenin agonist, rescued pathway expression and cardiac abnormalities, stabilizing the heart rhythm. Overall, our Dsp KO zebrafish line recapitulates many AC features observed in human patients, pointing at zebrafish as a suitable system for in vivo analysis of environmental modulators, such as the physical exercise, and the screening of pathway-targeted drugs, especially related to the Wnt/β-catenin signalling cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rudy Celeghin
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, 35128, Italy
| | - Giovanni Risato
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, 35128, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, 35131, Italy
| | - Giorgia Beffagna
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, 35131, Italy.
| | - Marco Cason
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, 35128, Italy
| | - Maria Bueno Marinas
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, 35128, Italy
| | - Mila Della Barbera
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, 35128, Italy
| | - Nicola Facchinello
- Neuroscience Institute, Italian National Research Council (CNR), Padova, 35131, Italy
| | - Alice Giuliodori
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, 35131, Italy
| | | | - Micol Caichiolo
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, 35131, Italy
| | - Andrea Vettori
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy
| | - Enrico Grisan
- School of Engineering, London South Bank University, London, SE1 0AA, UK
| | - Stefania Rizzo
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, 35128, Italy
| | | | | | - Gaetano Thiene
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, 35128, Italy
| | - Natascia Tiso
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padova, 35131, Italy.
| | - Kalliopi Pilichou
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, 35128, Italy
| | - Cristina Basso
- Department of Cardiac-Thoracic-Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, 35128, Italy.
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22
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Orchard JJ, Orchard JW, Davis AJ, Puranik R, Isbister JC, La Gerche A, Driscoll T, Doughty RN, Hamilton B. Clinical outcomes of 10 years of cardiac screening in elite New Zealand athletes. J Sci Med Sport 2023; 26:659-666. [PMID: 37932202 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2023.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To report findings from the High Performance Sport New Zealand cardiac screening programme, including comparisons between sexes and ethnicities. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. METHODS Elite Olympic-sport athletes were screened (2012-2022) with personal/family history, physical examination, resting 12-lead ECG and followed from the date of first screening until July 2022. An audit reviewed screening records, including demographic data, ECGs, follow-up and diagnoses. Flagged/equivocal ECGs were re-reviewed (International Criteria). RESULTS 2075 ECGs from 1189 athletes (53 % female, mean age 21 years; 83 % European, 9 % Māori, 5 % Pacific Islander, 3 % other) were included. No athletes retired for cardiac reasons; there were no cardiac deaths or major cardiac incidents (mean follow-up from first screening: 6.1 years (range: 0.6-10.9 years)). Diagnoses included Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome (0.7 %) and cardiomyopathies (0.3 %). Overall, 3.5 % of ECGs were abnormal, with ECGs of females more commonly abnormal (4.4 % vs 2.5 %, p = 0.02) and with a higher proportion of ECGs with abnormal T-wave inversion (TWI) (3.1 % vs 0.9 %, p < 0.001) compared to males. Of the abnormal TWI in females (all aged ≥16 years), 47 % was limited to V1-V3 with no other abnormalities. Abnormality rates were similar between Māori, Pacific Islander and European athlete ECGs. CONCLUSIONS WPW was the most frequent diagnosis, with very little cardiomyopathy found. The proportion of abnormal ECGs was low overall, but higher in females. This was driven by anterior TWI in V1-V3 which was not associated with diagnoses of conditions associated with sudden cardiac death (SCD). There was no difference in the proportion of abnormal ECGs of Māori or Pacific Island athletes compared to European athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica J Orchard
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, The University of Sydney, Australia. https://twitter.com/jessicajorchard
| | - John W Orchard
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, The University of Sydney, Australia. https://twitter.com/DrJohnOrchard
| | - Angus J Davis
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, The University of Sydney, Australia. https://twitter.com/AngusDavis6
| | - Rajesh Puranik
- Faculty of Medicine & Health, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Julia C Isbister
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, The University of Sydney, Australia. https://twitter.com/JuliaIsbister
| | - Andre La Gerche
- Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Australia; National Centre for Sports Cardiology, Australia. https://twitter.com/ALaGerche
| | - Tim Driscoll
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Robert N Doughty
- University of Auckland, New Zealand; The Heart Group, New Zealand
| | - Bruce Hamilton
- High Performance Sport New Zealand, New Zealand; Sport Research Institute of New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand.
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23
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Klein CF, Petek BJ, Moulson N, Baggish AL, Churchill TW, Harmon KG, Kliethermes SA, Patel MR, Drezner JA. Non-COVID-19 cardiovascular pathology from return-to-play screening in college athletes after COVID-19. Heart 2023; 109:1851-1857. [PMID: 37460194 PMCID: PMC10792102 DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2023-322645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Concerns for cardiac involvement after SARS-CoV-2 infection led to widespread cardiac testing in athletes. We examined incidental non-COVID-19 cardiovascular pathology in college athletes undergoing postinfection return-to-play screening. METHODS The Outcomes Registry for Cardiac Conditions in Athletes was a nationwide prospective multicentre observational cohort study that captured testing and outcomes data from 45 institutions (September 2020-June 2021). Athletes with an ECG and transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) and no pre-existing conditions were included. Findings were defined as major (associated with sudden cardiac death or requiring intervention), minor (warrants surveillance), incidental (no follow-up needed) or uncertain significance (abnormal with subsequent normal testing). RESULTS Athletes with both ECG and TTE (n=2900, mean age 20±1, 32% female, 27% black) were included. 35 (1.2%) had ECG abnormalities. Of these, 2 (5.7%) had TTE abnormalities indicating cardiomyopathy (hypertrophic-1, dilated-1), and 1 with normal TTE had atrial fibrillation. Of 2865 (98.8%) athletes with a normal ECG, 54 (1.9%) had TTE abnormalities: 3 (5.6%) with aortic root dilatation ≥40 mm, 15 (27.8%) with minor abnormalities, 25 (46.3%) with incidental findings and 11 (20.4%) with findings of uncertain significance. Overall, 6 (0.2%) athletes had major conditions; however, coronary anatomy and aortic dimensions were inconsistently reported and pathology may have been missed. CONCLUSION Major non-COVID-19 cardiovascular pathology was identified in 1/500 college athletes undergoing return-to-play screening. In athletes without ECG abnormalities, TTE's added value was limited to pathological aortic root dilatation in 1/1000 athletes and minor abnormalities warranting surveillance in 1/160 athletes. Two-thirds of findings were incidental or of uncertain significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian F Klein
- Internal Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Bradley J Petek
- Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Nathaniel Moulson
- Centre for Cardiovascular Innovation, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Aaron L Baggish
- Cardiovascular Performance Program, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Stephanie A Kliethermes
- Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | | | - Jonathan A Drezner
- Center for Sports Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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24
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Halasz G, Capelli B, Nardecchia A, Cattaneo M, Cassina T, Biasini V, Barbieri D, Villa M, Beltrami M, Perone F, Villani M, Badini M, Gervasi F, Piepoli M, Via G. Cost-effectiveness and diagnostic accuracy of focused cardiac ultrasound in the pre-participation screening of athletes: the SPORT-FoCUS study. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2023; 30:1748-1757. [PMID: 37668353 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwad287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The role of pre-participation screening (PPS) modalities in preventing sudden cardiac death (SCD) in athletes is debated due to a high false-positive rate. Focused cardiac ultrasound (FoCUS) has shown higher sensitivity and specificity, but its cost-effectiveness remains uncertain. This study aimed to determine the diagnostic performance and cost-effectiveness of FoCUS use in PPS. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 2111 athletes (77.4% male, mean age 24.9 ± 15.2years) underwent standardized family and medical history collection, physical examination, resting electrocardiography (ECG), FoCUS (10 min/5 views protocol), comprehensive echocardiography and exercise stress test. We prospectively evaluated three PPS incremental models: Model A, standardized medical history and physical examination Model B, Model A plus resting and stress ECG and Model C, Model B plus FoCUS (10 min/5 views protocol). We determined their incremental diagnostic accuracy and cost-effectiveness ratio. A total of 30 athletes were diagnosed with a cardiac condition associated with SCD: 3 were identified by Model A, 14 by Model B, and 13 athletes by Model C. The introduction of FoCUS markedly increased the sensitivity of PPS, compared with Model A and Model B (sensitivity 94% vs. 19% vs. 58% specificity 93% vs. 93% vs. 92%). The total screening costs were as follows: Model A 35.64 euros, Model B 87.68 euros, and Model C 120.89 euros. Considering the sole conditions at risk of SCD, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was 135.62 euros for Model B and 114.31 for Model C. CONCLUSIONS The implementation of FoCUS into the PPS allows to identify a significantly greater number of athletes at risk of SCD and markedly lowers the false negative rate. Furthermore, the incorporation of FoCUS into the screening process has shown to be cost-effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geza Halasz
- Cardiology Department, Azienda Ospedaliera SanCamillo Forlanini, Circonvallazione Gianicolense, 87, Rome 00152, Italy
| | - Bruno Capelli
- Sport and Exercise Medicine, Istituto Cardiocentro Ticino, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Alessia Nardecchia
- Italian Ministry of Education and Research, I.I.S Ceccano, Via Gaeta 105, Ceccano 03023, Italy
| | - Mattia Cattaneo
- Cardiologia, Centro Medico, Lugano, Switzerland
- Cardiology Department, Istituto Cardiocentro Ticino, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Tiziano Cassina
- Cardiac Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Istituto Cardiocentro Ticino, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Vincenzo Biasini
- Sport Medicine and Exercise Medicine, Centro di Medicina dello Sport I° Livello, L'Aquila 67100, Italy
| | - Davide Barbieri
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Corso Ercole I d'Este 32, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Michele Villa
- Cardiac Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Istituto Cardiocentro Ticino, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Matteo Beltrami
- Cardiology Unit, San Giovanni di Dio Hospital, Florence 50142, Italy
| | - Francesco Perone
- Cardiac Rehabilitation Unit, Rehabilitation Clinic 'Villa delle Magnolie', Castel Morrone, Caserta 81020, Italy
| | - Matteo Villani
- Intensive Care Unit, G. Da Saliceto Hospital, Via Taverna Giuseppe, 49, 29121 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Matteo Badini
- Cardiology Department, Istituto Cardiocentro Ticino, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Federico Gervasi
- Postgraduate School of Medical Statistics and Biometry, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Massimo Piepoli
- Clinical Cardiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Via Morandi 30, San Donato Milanese, Milan 20097, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Science for Health, University of Milan, Via Festa del Perdono 7, Milan 20122, Italy
| | - Gabriele Via
- Cardiac Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Istituto Cardiocentro Ticino, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Lugano, Switzerland
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25
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Panhuyzen-Goedkoop NM, Verbeek ALM, Goedkoop RJ, Malekzadeh A, Wilde AAM, Peters RJG, Jørstad HT. Quality of athlete screening for high-risk cardiovascular conditions-A systematic review. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2023; 33:2094-2109. [PMID: 37449413 DOI: 10.1111/sms.14446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is the leading medical cause of death in athletes. To prevent SCD, screening for high-risk cardiovascular conditions (HRCC) is recommended. Screening strategies are based on a limited number of studies and expert consensus. However, evidence and efficacy of athlete HRCC screening is unclear. OBJECTIVE To determine methodological quality and quality of evidence of athlete screening, and screening efficacy to detect HRCC in a systematic review. METHODS We performed a systematic search of Medline, Embase, Scopus and Cochrane Library up to June 2021. We included articles containing original data of athlete cardiovascular screening, providing details of screening strategies, test results and HRCC detection. We assessed methodological quality of the included articles by QUADAS-2, quality of evidence of athlete HRCC screening by GRADE, and athlete HRCC screening efficacy by SWiM. RESULTS Of 2720 citations, we included 33 articles (1991-2018), comprising 82 417 athletes (26.7% elite, 73.4% competitive, 21.7% women, 75.2% aged ≤35). Methodological quality was 'very low' (33 articles), caused by absence of data blinding and inappropriate statistical analysis. Quality of evidence was 'very low' (33 articles), due to observational designs and population heterogeneity. Screening efficacy could not be reliably established. The prevalence of HRCC was 0.43% with false positive rate (FPR) 13.0%. CONCLUSIONS Methodological quality and quality of evidence on athlete screening are suboptimal. Efficacy could not be reliably established. The prevalence of screen detected HRCC was very low and FPR high. Given the limitations of the evidence, individual recommendations need to be prudent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Panhuyzen-Goedkoop
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Heart Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Sports Medical Centre Papendal, Arnhem, The Netherlands
| | - André L M Verbeek
- Department for Health Evidence, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Arjan Malekzadeh
- University Library, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arthur A M Wilde
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Heart Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ron J G Peters
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Heart Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harald T Jørstad
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Heart Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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26
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Kırık ABT, Yüksel O, Dursun H, Çöllüoğlu İT, Kocahan T, Kaya D. Visual or computer-based measurements: Which is important for the interpretation of an athlete's electrocardiography? REVISTA DA ASSOCIACAO MEDICA BRASILEIRA (1992) 2023; 69:e20230476. [PMID: 37909616 PMCID: PMC10610756 DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.20230476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Preparticipation screening of athletes by electrocardiography is the most crucial step in determining sudden cardiac death risk factors. Several electrocardiography interpretation software programs have been developed for physicians practicing in this field. Our study aimed to assess cardiopoint sudden death screening module by comparing its findings with two cardiologists using Seattle and International criteria. METHODS A total of 303 licensed national athletes (37% females) were enrolled. electrocardiographies were examined by the cardiopoint sudden death screening module using Seattle criteria and cardiologists. The consistency between cardiologists and software was compared, and the confidence assessment of the module was tested. RESULTS With regard to Seattle criteria, moderate consistency was found between the cardiopoint sudden death screening module and the 1st (κ=0.41) and 2nd cardiologist (κ=0.59). Consistency between two cardiologists was moderate (κ=0.55). When we applied International criteria, there was moderate consistency between the module and the 1st cardiologist (κ=0.42), and good consistency between the module and the 2nd cardiologist (κ=0.63). Consistency between the two cardiologists was good (κ=0.62). CONCLUSION The cardiopoint sudden death screening module had similar agreement with cardiologists based on both criteria. However, the software needs to be updated according to International criteria. Using computer-based measurements for preparticipation screening will help to save time and provide standardization of electrocardiography interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Oğuz Yüksel
- Dokuz Eylül University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Sports Medicine – İzmir, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin Dursun
- Dokuz Eylül University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiology – İzmir, Turkey
| | - İnci Tuğçe Çöllüoğlu
- Karabük University Education and Research Hospital, Department of Cardiology – Karabük, Turkey
| | - Tuğba Kocahan
- University of Health Sciences Gülhane Training and Research Hospital, Department of Sports Medicine – Ankara, Turkey
| | - Dayimi Kaya
- Dokuz Eylül University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiology – İzmir, Turkey
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27
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Ng R, Gokhan I, Stankey P, Akar FG, Campbell SG. Chronic diastolic stretch unmasks conduction defects in an in vitro model of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2023; 325:H1373-H1385. [PMID: 37830983 PMCID: PMC10977872 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00709.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
We seek to elucidate the precise nature of mechanical loading that precipitates conduction deficits in a concealed-phase model of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM). ACM is a progressive disorder often resulting from mutations in desmosomal proteins. Exercise has been shown to worsen disease progression and unmask arrhythmia vulnerability, yet the underlying pathomechanisms may depend on the type and intensity of exercise. Because exercise causes myriad changes to multiple inter-dependent hemodynamic parameters, it is difficult to isolate its effects to specific changes in mechanical load. Here, we use engineered heart tissues (EHTs) with iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes expressing R451G desmoplakin, an ACM-linked mutation, which results in a functionally null model of desmoplakin (DSP). We also use a novel bioreactor to independently perturb tissue strain at different time points during the cardiac cycle. We culture EHTs under three strain regimes: normal physiological shortening; increased diastolic stretch, simulating high preload; and isometric culture, simulating high afterload. DSPR451G EHTs that have been cultured isometrically undergo adaptation, with no change in action potential parameters, conduction velocity, or contractile function, a phenotype confirmed by global proteomic analysis. However, when DSPR451G EHTs are subjected to increased diastolic stretch, they exhibit concomitant reductions in conduction velocity and the expression of connexin-43. These effects are rescued by inhibition of both lysosome activity and ERK signaling. Our results indicate that the response of DSPR451G EHTs to mechanical stimuli depends on the strain and the timing of the applied stimulus, with increased diastolic stretch unmasking conduction deficits in a concealed-phase model of ACM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Ng
- Yale University, New Haven, United States
| | | | | | - Fadi G Akar
- Cardiovascular Medicine and Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Stuart G Campbell
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
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28
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Arbelo E, Protonotarios A, Gimeno JR, Arbustini E, Barriales-Villa R, Basso C, Bezzina CR, Biagini E, Blom NA, de Boer RA, De Winter T, Elliott PM, Flather M, Garcia-Pavia P, Haugaa KH, Ingles J, Jurcut RO, Klaassen S, Limongelli G, Loeys B, Mogensen J, Olivotto I, Pantazis A, Sharma S, Van Tintelen JP, Ware JS, Kaski JP. 2023 ESC Guidelines for the management of cardiomyopathies. Eur Heart J 2023; 44:3503-3626. [PMID: 37622657 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehad194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 220] [Impact Index Per Article: 220.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
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29
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Goff NK, Hutchinson A, Koek W, Kamat D. Meta-analysis on the Effectiveness of ECG Screening for Conditions Related to Sudden Cardiac Death in Young Athletes. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2023; 62:1158-1168. [PMID: 36797841 PMCID: PMC10478328 DOI: 10.1177/00099228231152857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Controversy exists over the use of electrocardiograms (ECGs) in sports pre-participation screening. We performed a meta-analysis comparing the effectiveness of history and physical examination (H&P) with ECG at detecting both cardiac disease and sudden cardiac death-associated conditions (SCD-AC). Pre-participation studies published from 2015 to 2020 with athletes 10 to 35 years old were included. This yielded 28 011 athletes screened and 124 cardiac diagnoses, 103 of which were SCD-AC. A meta-analysis of log odds ratios (ORs) was conducted using a random-effects model. The ORs for the association between H&P and detecting both cardiac disease and SCD-AC were not statistically significant (OR = 3.4, P = .076; OR = 2.9, P = .078). The ORs for the association between ECG and detecting both cardiac disease and SCD-AC were statistically significant (60, P < .001; 148, P < .0001). In conclusion, the odds of detecting both cardiac disease and conditions related to SCD with ECG are greater than with H&P during sports pre-participation screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas K. Goff
- Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | | | - Wouter Koek
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Deepak Kamat
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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30
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Abela M, Yamagata K, Bonello J, Xuereb S, Borg L, Xuereb R, Soler JF, Camilleri W, Abela E, Callus A, Farrugia M, Sapiano K, Felice T, Burg M, Sammut MA, Grech V, Papadakis M. BEAT-IT: A de-novo cardiac screening programme in Maltese adolescents. Hellenic J Cardiol 2023:S1109-9666(23)00183-5. [PMID: 37743018 DOI: 10.1016/j.hjc.2023.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Sudden cardiac death (SCD) in young individuals is often unexpected, provoking substantial emotional stress for family and friends of the deceased. Cardiac screening may identify individuals who harbour disorders linked to SCD. The feasibility and diagnostic yield of a nationwide cardiac screening programme in adolescents has never been explored. METHODS All individuals eligible for cardiac screening (students aged 15 years) were systematically invited to enrol. Students were provided with a health questionnaire. ECGs were acquired at school. A physician led consultation was carried out on site. Participants with an abnormal screen were then referred for secondary evaluation to the nation's tertiary centre. Feasibility criteria included a) participation rate >60%, b) adherence to secondary evaluation >80%, and c) cost per individual screened equating to <€100. The diagnostic yield was also evaluated. RESULTS At the end of enrolment, 2708 students gave consent (mean 15 years, 50.4% male), equating to 67.9% of the eligible cohort. Overall, 109 participants (4.0%) were referred for further evaluation. An abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG) was the most common reason for referral (3.7%). Fifteen individuals (0.6%) were diagnosed with a cardiac condition. Nine (0.3%) had a condition linked to SCD (n = 1 Long-QT syndrome, n = 1 Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, n = 5 Wolff-Parkinson White, n = 2 coronary anomalies). The yield was similar in athletes and non-athletes (p = 0.324). The cost per cardiac individual screened equated to €51.15. CONCLUSION A nationwide systematic cardiac screening programme for adolescent athletes and non-athletes is feasible and cost-efficient, provided that responsible centres have the appropriate infrastructure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Abela
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta; Medical School, University of Malta, Malta; St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom.
| | | | - John Bonello
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Sara Xuereb
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Lisa Borg
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Rachel Xuereb
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | | | | | - Estelle Abela
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Adrian Callus
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Maria Farrugia
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Karl Sapiano
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Tiziana Felice
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Melanie Burg
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Mark A Sammut
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Victor Grech
- Medical School, University of Malta, Malta; Department of Paediatrics, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
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31
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Corrado D, Trovato D, Zorzi A. Long QT Syndrome: A Preventable Cause of Exercise-Induced Sudden Cardiac Death. JACC Case Rep 2023; 22:101991. [PMID: 37790770 PMCID: PMC10544427 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2023.101991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Corrado
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Zorzi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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32
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Marijon E, Narayanan K, Smith K, Barra S, Basso C, Blom MT, Crotti L, D'Avila A, Deo R, Dumas F, Dzudie A, Farrugia A, Greeley K, Hindricks G, Hua W, Ingles J, Iwami T, Junttila J, Koster RW, Le Polain De Waroux JB, Olasveengen TM, Ong MEH, Papadakis M, Sasson C, Shin SD, Tse HF, Tseng Z, Van Der Werf C, Folke F, Albert CM, Winkel BG. The Lancet Commission to reduce the global burden of sudden cardiac death: a call for multidisciplinary action. Lancet 2023; 402:883-936. [PMID: 37647926 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)00875-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Despite major advancements in cardiovascular medicine, sudden cardiac death (SCD) continues to be an enormous medical and societal challenge, claiming millions of lives every year. Efforts to prevent SCD are hampered by imperfect risk prediction and inadequate solutions to specifically address arrhythmogenesis. Although resuscitation strategies have witnessed substantial evolution, there is a need to strengthen the organisation of community interventions and emergency medical systems across varied locations and health-care structures. With all the technological and medical advances of the 21st century, the fact that survival from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) remains lower than 10% in most parts of the world is unacceptable. Recognising this urgent need, the Lancet Commission on SCD was constituted, bringing together 30 international experts in varied disciplines. Consistent progress in tackling SCD will require a completely revamped approach to SCD prevention, with wide-sweeping policy changes that will empower the development of both governmental and community-based programmes to maximise survival from SCA, and to comprehensively attend to survivors and decedents' families after the event. International collaborative efforts that maximally leverage and connect the expertise of various research organisations will need to be prioritised to properly address identified gaps. The Commission places substantial emphasis on the need to develop a multidisciplinary strategy that encompasses all aspects of SCD prevention and treatment. The Commission provides a critical assessment of the current scientific efforts in the field, and puts forth key recommendations to challenge, activate, and intensify efforts by both the scientific and global community with new directions, research, and innovation to reduce the burden of SCD worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloi Marijon
- Division of Cardiology, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Inserm, PARCC, Paris, France; Paris-Sudden Death Expertise Center (Paris-SDEC), Paris, France.
| | - Kumar Narayanan
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, PARCC, Paris, France; Paris-Sudden Death Expertise Center (Paris-SDEC), Paris, France; Medicover Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
| | - Karen Smith
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Silverchain Group, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sérgio Barra
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital da Luz Arrábida, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Cristina Basso
- Cardiovascular Pathology Unit-Azienda Ospedaliera and Department of Cardiac Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Marieke T Blom
- Department of General Practice, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lia Crotti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy; Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias of Genetic Origin, Cardiomyopathy Unit and Laboratory of Cardiovascular Genetics, Department of Cardiology, Milan, Italy
| | - Andre D'Avila
- Department of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Cardiology, Hospital SOS Cardio, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Rajat Deo
- Department of Cardiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Florence Dumas
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, PARCC, Paris, France; Paris-Sudden Death Expertise Center (Paris-SDEC), Paris, France; Emergency Department, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Anastase Dzudie
- Cardiology and Cardiac Arrhythmia Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, DoualaGeneral Hospital, Douala, Cameroon; Yaounde Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Yaounde 1, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Audrey Farrugia
- Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, France, Strasbourg, France
| | - Kaitlyn Greeley
- Division of Cardiology, European Georges Pompidou Hospital, AP-HP, Paris, France; Université Paris Cité, Inserm, PARCC, Paris, France; Paris-Sudden Death Expertise Center (Paris-SDEC), Paris, France
| | | | - Wei Hua
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Center, FuWai Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Jodie Ingles
- Centre for Population Genomics, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Taku Iwami
- Kyoto University Health Service, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Juhani Junttila
- MRC Oulu, University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Rudolph W Koster
- Heart Center, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Theresa M Olasveengen
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Oslo University Hospital and Institute of Clinical Medicine, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marcus E H Ong
- Singapore General Hospital, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Michael Papadakis
- Cardiovascular Clinical Academic Group, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Sang Do Shin
- Department of Emergency Medicine at the Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hung-Fat Tse
- University of Hong Kong, School of Clinical Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; Cardiac and Vascular Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zian Tseng
- Division of Cardiology, UCSF Health, University of California, San Francisco Medical Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Christian Van Der Werf
- University of Amsterdam, Heart Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Fredrik Folke
- Department of Cardiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte, Herlev, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christine M Albert
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Bo Gregers Winkel
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Romano S, Minardi S, Patrizi G, Palamà Z, Sciahbasi A. Sport in ischemic heart disease: Focus on primary and secondary prevention. Clin Cardiol 2023; 46:1021-1027. [PMID: 37246477 PMCID: PMC10540006 DOI: 10.1002/clc.24052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is one of the leading causes of death and morbidity in the world. The role of primary prevention is particularly relevant since IHD can be for a long time asymptomatic until the occurrence of a condition that could lead to plaque instabilization or increased oxygen demand. Secondary prevention is also essential to improve patients' prognosis and quality of life. The aim of this review is to provide a detailed and updated description of the role of sport and physical activity both in primary prevention and secondary prevention. In primary prevention, sport and physical activity are effective through the control of the main cardiovascular risk factors, such as hypertension and dyslipidemia. In secondary prevention, sport and physical activity can lead to a reduction in subsequent coronary events. Every effort must be made to encourage the performance of physical and sports activity both in asymptomatic subjects at risk and those with a history of IHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvio Romano
- Cardiology, Department of Health, Life, and Environmental SciencesUniversity of L'AquilaL'AquilaItaly
| | - Simona Minardi
- Cardiology, Department of Health, Life, and Environmental SciencesUniversity of L'AquilaL'AquilaItaly
| | - Giampiero Patrizi
- Department of CardiologyB. Ramazzini Hospital, Ausl ModenaCarpiItaly
| | - Zefferino Palamà
- Cardiology, Department of Health, Life, and Environmental SciencesUniversity of L'AquilaL'AquilaItaly
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34
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Malik A, Hanson J, Han J, Dolezal B, Bradfield JS, Boyle NG, Hsu JJ. Sudden cardiac arrest in athletes and strategies to optimize preparedness. Clin Cardiol 2023; 46:1059-1071. [PMID: 37493125 PMCID: PMC10540019 DOI: 10.1002/clc.24095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death in young athletes. Despite efforts to improve preparedness for cardiac emergencies, the incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in athletes remains high, and bystander awareness and readiness for SCA support are inadequate. Initiatives such as designing an emergency action plan (EAP) and mandating training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator use (AED) for team members and personnel can contribute to improved survival rates in SCA cases. This review provides an overview of SCA in athletes, focusing on identifying populations at the highest risk and evaluating the effectiveness of different screening practices in detecting conditions that may lead to SCA. We summarize current practices and recommendations for improving the response to SCA events, and we highlight the need for ongoing efforts to optimize preparedness through the implementation of EAPs and the training of individuals in CPR and AED use. Additionally, we propose a call to action to increase awareness and training in EAP development, CPR, and AED use for team members and personnel. To improve outcomes of SCA cases in athletes, it is crucial to enhance bystander awareness and preparedness for cardiac emergencies. Implementing EAPs and providing training in CPR and AED use for team members and personnel are essential steps toward improving survival rates in SCA cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneeq Malik
- Department of MedicineOlive View‐UCLA Medical CenterLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Justin Hanson
- Department of Medicine, Division of CardiologyDavid Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Janet Han
- Department of Medicine, Division of CardiologyVeterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System and UCLALos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Brett Dolezal
- Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, Departments of Medicine and PhysiologyDavid Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Jason S. Bradfield
- UCLA Cardiac Arrhythmia CenterDavid Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Noel G. Boyle
- UCLA Cardiac Arrhythmia CenterDavid Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Jeffrey J. Hsu
- Department of Medicine, Division of CardiologyDavid Geffen School of Medicine at UCLALos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
- Department of Medicine, Division of CardiologyVeterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System and UCLALos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
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35
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D'Ascenzi F, Ragazzoni GL, Boncompagni A, Cavigli L. Sports cardiology: A glorious past, a well-defined present, a bright future. Clin Cardiol 2023; 46:1015-1020. [PMID: 37503665 PMCID: PMC10540010 DOI: 10.1002/clc.24112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The attention towards sports cardiology has dramatically grown after the introduction of preparticipation screening and the need for specific education on electrocardiogram interpretation in athletes, given the differences between athletes and the general population. The present article stresses the need for specific skills, knowledge, and clinical expertise in sports cardiology, which are essential for appropriately screening competitive athletes to prevent sudden cardiac death and avoid overdiagnosis. However, disqualification from sports competitions may lead to sports inactivity, and athletes may enter a gray zone where little or no information is provided about what they can or cannot do to stay active. However, modern sports cardiology cannot neglect the patient's needs and the importance of the safe practice of regular exercise. In this context, the personalized exercise prescription plays a crucial role in the core curriculum and the clinical activity of professionals involved in sports cardiology programs. Given its specificities, sports cardiology requires a formal education plan for medical school students and all residents. Additional education and practice are required for young colleagues who want to focus their professional lives on sports cardiology. The future directions of emerging modern sports cardiology should not neglect the importance of a scientific community that works together, designing multicenter international outcomes-based research to address the many remaining areas of uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavio D'Ascenzi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of CardiologyUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Gian L. Ragazzoni
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of CardiologyUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Alex Boncompagni
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of CardiologyUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Luna Cavigli
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of CardiologyUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
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36
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Graziano F, Cipriani A, Balla D, Bondarev S, Marra MP, Bauce B, Vágó H, Corrado D, Zorzi A. Evolving spectrum of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy: Implications for Sports Cardiology. Clin Cardiol 2023; 46:1072-1081. [PMID: 37357443 PMCID: PMC10540004 DOI: 10.1002/clc.24069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a genetic heart muscle disease, structurally characterized by progressive fibro-fatty replacement of the normal myocardium and clinically by ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). Predominantly thanks to the use of cardiac magnetic resonance, we have learnt that the spectrum of the disease encompasses not only the classical right ventricular phenotype, but also biventricular and left dominant variants. Sport activity contributes to the phenotypic expression and progression of ACM and may trigger life-threatening VAs and sudden cardiac death (SCD). We conducted a review of the literature about ACM and its implications in Sport Cardiology and summarized the main findings in this topic. Early identification of affected athletes through preparticipation screening (PPS) is fundamental but, while classical right-ventricular or biventricular phenotypes are usually suspected because of electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiographic abnormalities, variants with predominant left ventricular involvement are often characterized by normal ECG and unremarkable echocardiography. Usually the only manifestations of such variants are exercise-induced VAs and for this reason exercise testing may empower the diagnostic yield of the PPS. Patients with ACM are not eligible to competitive sports activity, but low-to-moderate intensity physical activity under medical supervision is possible in most cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Graziano
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public HealthUniversity of PaduaPadovaItaly
| | - Alberto Cipriani
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public HealthUniversity of PaduaPadovaItaly
| | - Dorottya Balla
- Department of Sports MedicineSemmelweis UniversityBudapestHungary
| | - Sergei Bondarev
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public HealthUniversity of PaduaPadovaItaly
| | - Martina Perazzolo Marra
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public HealthUniversity of PaduaPadovaItaly
| | - Barbara Bauce
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public HealthUniversity of PaduaPadovaItaly
| | - Hajnalka Vágó
- Department of Sports MedicineSemmelweis UniversityBudapestHungary
- Heart and Vascular CenterSemmelweis UniversityBudapestHungary
| | - Domenico Corrado
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public HealthUniversity of PaduaPadovaItaly
| | - Alessandro Zorzi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public HealthUniversity of PaduaPadovaItaly
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37
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Maron MS, Mitten M, Borchers J, Rowin EJ, Maron BJ. Medical and Legal Determinants of Sports Eligibility for Young Competitive Athletes With Cardiovascular Disease. J Am Coll Cardiol 2023; 82:828-832. [PMID: 37542484 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Martin S Maron
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center at Lahey Medical Center and Hospital, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Matthew Mitten
- National Sports Law Institute, Marquette University Law School, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - James Borchers
- Division of Family Medicine-Sports Medicine, Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Ethan J Rowin
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center at Lahey Medical Center and Hospital, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Barry J Maron
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center at Lahey Medical Center and Hospital, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
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38
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Danon S. Chest Pain, Palpitations, and Syncope: Preventing Sudden Cardiac Death in Children. Adv Pediatr 2023; 70:171-185. [PMID: 37422295 DOI: 10.1016/j.yapd.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
Sudden cardiac death is defined as an abrupt, unexpected death of cardiovascular cause with loss of consciousness within 1 hour of onset of symptoms. In an effort to prevent these events, clinicians need to recognize symptoms to identify at risk patients. There is often an overlap in symptoms of chest pain, palpitations, and syncope. The workup depends on the characteristics of these symptoms. The history and physical examination often provide adequate information, but additional testing and referral to pediatric cardiology are sometimes indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saar Danon
- Pediatric Cardiology and Congenital Cardiac Catheterization, Miller Children's and Women's Hospital Long Beach, 2701 Atlantic Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90806, USA; University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
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39
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Major Z, Medvegy Z, Tulit TT, Simonyi G, Pavlik G, Medvegy M. [Analysis of sudden cardiac death in competitive athletes, possibilities for reducing cases]. Orv Hetil 2023; 164:1155-1163. [PMID: 37481770 DOI: 10.1556/650.2023.32806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sudden cardiac death in athletes is rare (0.5 to 1 per 100 000 athlete years), but sudden cardiac death in known athletes causes general shock. OBJECTIVE Our research aim was to collect and study as many sudden cardiac death cases as possible, judge the role of stress and look for ways to reduce fatal tragedies. METHOD From registers and newspaper articles found on the Internet, we collected 360 (including 14 women) athletes' sudden cardiac death cases where the sport, age and place of death (during training/competition/after) could be determined. From these, a single database has been prepared in order of the year of death. The cases were grouped and analyzed by sports. Based on our results and literature data, we made recommendations to reduce fatalities. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION There were more sudden cardiac deaths in competitions than in trainings (239 vs. 99), but tragedies also happened during warm-ups and chess without physical exertion, furthermore, there was no sudden cardiac death in the stakeless training of marathon/half marathon/triathlon athletes; all these prove the role of stress, so we recommend a psychological conversation before a high-stakes race. There were also a lot of sudden cardiac deaths (79/360) during team sports trainings, so we recommend reanimation readiness there as well. After training/competition, sudden cardiac death happened mainly in sports requiring high static effort, where post-competition monitoring is also recommended. Those who died in training were younger than those who died during the race (p<0.01), so young people should be monitored more closely for medical and (under)fitness. Marathon runners and triathletes were older than team athletes (p<0.005) and only died in competition, so for them a basic examination and an ECG within 1 month before competition are recommended. Conclusions drawn from literature data: sports medicine examination should be standardized and documented in an accessible way; since resuscitation started earlier and professionally is more effective, all competitors should receive reanimation training. Orv Hetil. 2023; 164(29): 1155-1163.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zoltán Medvegy
- 2 Magyar Testnevelési és Sporttudományi Egyetem Budapest Magyarország
| | - Tímea Terézia Tulit
- 3 Kistarcsai Flór Ferenc Kórház, Kardiológiai Osztály Kistarcsa Magyarország
| | - Gábor Simonyi
- 4 Dél-budai Centrumkórház - Szent Imre Egyetemi Oktatókórház, Anyagcsere Központ Budapest Magyarország
| | - Gábor Pavlik
- 2 Magyar Testnevelési és Sporttudományi Egyetem Budapest Magyarország
| | - Mihály Medvegy
- 3 Kistarcsai Flór Ferenc Kórház, Kardiológiai Osztály Kistarcsa Magyarország
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40
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Thiene G, Basso C, Pilichou K, Bueno Marinas M. Desmosomal Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy: The Story Telling of a Genetically Determined Heart Muscle Disease. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2018. [PMID: 37509658 PMCID: PMC10377062 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11072018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The history of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (AC) as a genetically determined desmosomal disease started since the original discovery by Lancisi in a four-generation family, published in 1728. Contemporary history at the University of Padua started with Dalla Volta, who haemodynamically investigated patients with "auricularization" of the right ventricle, and with Nava, who confirmed familiarity. The contemporary knowledge advances consisted of (a) AC as a heart muscle disease with peculiar electrical instability of the right ventricle; (b) the finding of pathological substrates, in keeping with a myocardial dystrophy; (c) the inclusion of AC in the cardiomyopathies classification; (d) AC as the main cause of sudden death in athletes; (e) the discovery of the culprit genes coding proteins of the intercalated disc (desmosome); (f) progression in clinical diagnosis with specific ECG abnormalities, angiocardiography, endomyocardial biopsy, 2D echocardiography, electron anatomic mapping and cardiac magnetic resonance; (g) the discovery of left ventricular AC; (h) prevention of SCD with the invention and application of the lifesaving implantable cardioverter defibrillator and external defibrillator scattered in public places and playgrounds as well as the ineligibility for competitive sport activity for AC patients; (i) genetic screening of the proband family to unmask asymptomatic carriers. Nondesmosomal ACs, with a phenotype overlapping desmosomal AC, are also treated, including genetics: Transmembrane protein 43, SCN5A, Desmin, Phospholamban, Lamin A/C, Filamin C, Cadherin 2, Tight junction protein 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Thiene
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Medical School, University of Padua, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Cristina Basso
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Medical School, University of Padua, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Kalliopi Pilichou
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Medical School, University of Padua, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Bueno Marinas
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Medical School, University of Padua, 35121 Padova, Italy
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41
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Andreini D, Bauce B, Limongelli G, Monosilio S, Di Lorenzo F, Angelini F, Melotti E, Monda E, Mango R, Toso E, Maestrini V. Sport activity in patients with cardiomyopathies: a review. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2023; 24:e116-e127. [PMID: 37186562 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Exercise has undisputable benefits and is an important therapy component for most cardiovascular diseases, with a proven role in reducing mortality. On the contrary, exercise may paradoxically trigger sudden cardiac arrest in patients with cardiomyopathies requiring refrain from competitive sports participation. The 2020 European guidelines for patients with cardiovascular disease provided indication for sports participation for patients with cardiac conditions, including cardiomyopathies. Although in some cases, the knowledge of the natural history of the disease and the risk of death during intensive exercise is more robust, in others, the evidence is scarce. Therefore, recommendations are not available for all possible scenarios with several uncertainties. In addition, many patients aspire to continue competitive sports or practise recreational activities after a diagnosis of cardiomyopathy. These aspects generate concern for the physician, who should make complex decisions, and confronts the request to design specific exercise programmes without specific indications. This article will review the available evidence on the sports-related risk of sudden cardiac death or cardiovascular events and the progression of the disease in cardiomyopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Andreini
- Division of Cardiology and Cardiac Imaging, IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi Sant'Ambrogio
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milan, Milan
| | - Barbara Bauce
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Padua
| | - Giuseppe Limongelli
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples
| | - Sara Monosilio
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome
| | | | - Filippo Angelini
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, Turin
| | - Eleonora Melotti
- Division of Cardiology and Cardiac Imaging, IRCCS Ospedale Galeazzi Sant'Ambrogio
| | - Emanuele Monda
- Inherited and Rare Cardiovascular Diseases, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples
| | - Ruggiero Mango
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome, Tor Vergata, Rome
- Cardiology Unit, Department of emergency and Critical Care, Tor vergata Hospital
- House of care D4, Local Health Authority Roma 2, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Toso
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, Città Della Salute e Della Scienza Hospital, Turin
| | - Viviana Maestrini
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome
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42
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Jiravska Godula B, Jiravsky O, Pesova P, Jelinek L, Sovova M, Moravcova K, Ozana J, Hudec M, Miklik R, Hecko J, Sknouril L, Sovova E. Preparticipation Screening of Athletes: The Prevalence of Positive Family History. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2023; 10:jcdd10040183. [PMID: 37103062 PMCID: PMC10144243 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd10040183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a leading cause of death among athletes, and those with a positive family history (FH) of SCD and/or cardiovascular disease (CVD) may be at increased risk. The primary objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and predictors of positive FH of SCD and CVD in athletes using four widely used preparticipation screening (PPS) systems. The secondary objective was to compare the functionality of the screening systems. In a cohort of 13,876 athletes, 1.28% had a positive FH in at least one PPS system. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the maximum heart rate as significantly associated with positive FH (OR = 1.042, 95% CI = 1.027-1.056, p < 0.001). The highest prevalence of positive FH was found using the PPE-4 system (1.20%), followed by FIFA, AHA, and IOC systems (1.11%, 0.89%, and 0.71%, respectively). In conclusion, the prevalence of positive FH for SCD and CVD in Czech athletes was found to be 1.28%. Furthermore, positive FH was associated with a higher maximum heart rate at the peak of the exercise test. The findings of this study revealed significant differences in detection rates between PPS protocols, so further research is needed to determine the optimal method of FH collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bogna Jiravska Godula
- Faculty of Medicine, Palacky University, Krizkovskeho 511/8, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Sports Cardiology Center, Nemocnice Agel Trinec-Podlesi, Konska 453, 739 61 Trinec, Czech Republic
| | - Otakar Jiravsky
- Sports Cardiology Center, Nemocnice Agel Trinec-Podlesi, Konska 453, 739 61 Trinec, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 735/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Pesova
- Faculty of Medicine, Palacky University, Krizkovskeho 511/8, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Sports Cardiology Center, Nemocnice Agel Trinec-Podlesi, Konska 453, 739 61 Trinec, Czech Republic
| | - Libor Jelinek
- Faculty of Medicine, Palacky University, Krizkovskeho 511/8, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Marketa Sovova
- Faculty of Medicine, Palacky University, Krizkovskeho 511/8, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Katarina Moravcova
- Faculty of Medicine, Palacky University, Krizkovskeho 511/8, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Jaromir Ozana
- Faculty of Medicine, Palacky University, Krizkovskeho 511/8, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Hudec
- Sports Cardiology Center, Nemocnice Agel Trinec-Podlesi, Konska 453, 739 61 Trinec, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 735/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Roman Miklik
- Sports Cardiology Center, Nemocnice Agel Trinec-Podlesi, Konska 453, 739 61 Trinec, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 735/5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Hecko
- Sports Cardiology Center, Nemocnice Agel Trinec-Podlesi, Konska 453, 739 61 Trinec, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB-Technical University of Ostrava, 708 33 Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Libor Sknouril
- Sports Cardiology Center, Nemocnice Agel Trinec-Podlesi, Konska 453, 739 61 Trinec, Czech Republic
| | - Eliska Sovova
- Faculty of Medicine, Palacky University, Krizkovskeho 511/8, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
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McLeod EV, Walsh JC, Haigney MC, Franzos MA, Hellwig LD. Exertional-Related Sudden Cardiac Death in a Young, Presumed Healthy, and Medically Screened Population: A Military Case Series. Am J Forensic Med Pathol 2023:00000433-990000000-00071. [PMID: 37093871 DOI: 10.1097/paf.0000000000000830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is defined as death from cardiac causes with loss of consciousness occurring within 1 hour of a change in cardiovascular status. As subset, SCD associated with physical exertion (SCD/E) can be defined as a cardiac event whose symptoms start during or within 1 hour of physical exertion. The US military represents a unique opportunity for studying SCD/E because of medical screening at recruitment, mandatory physical training, an active surveillance system, and centralized autopsy services. Because of medical screening, recruits are presumed healthy, but significant conditions can go undetected. We present 4 diverse cases of SCD/E in the military setting. Sudden cardiac death associated with physical exertion is often the first indication of a serious occult cardiac pathology. Postmortem genetic testing revealed a causative pathogenic mutation in 1 of 4 cases, enabling genetic testing of family members to prevent similar catastrophic loss of life, underscoring the importance of postmortem evaluation including genetic testing. Further investigations will help direct screening and prevention to capture those at risk for SCD. The cases presented in this series are a sample of the diverse etiologies and contexts surrounding SCD/E in the military setting that have been captured by Armed Forces Medical Examiner System.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth V McLeod
- From the National Capital Consortium, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD
| | - John C Walsh
- Forensic Pathology Investigations, Armed Forces Medical Examiner System, Dover, DE
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Beach CM, Lampert R. Optimizing pre-participation screening to prevent tragedy in young athletes: moving from if to how. Eur Heart J 2023; 44:1093-1095. [PMID: 36760103 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehad015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Cheyenne M Beach
- Section of Pediatric Cardiology, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Rachel Lampert
- Yale University School of Medicine, 789 Howard Ave, Dana 319, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
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Sarto P, Zorzi A, Merlo L, Vessella T, Pegoraro C, Giorgiano F, Graziano F, Basso C, Drezner JA, Corrado D. Value of screening for the risk of sudden cardiac death in young competitive athletes. Eur Heart J 2023; 44:1084-1092. [PMID: 36760222 PMCID: PMC10027466 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehad017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS This study aimed to report the long-term findings of the Italian programme of cardiovascular preparticipation screening (PPS) in young, competitive athletes. METHODS AND RESULTS The study assessed the diagnostic yield for diseases at risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD), the costs of serial evaluations, and the long-term outcomes of PPS in a large population of Italian children (age range, 7-18 years). The PPS was repeated annually and included medical history, physical examination, resting electrocardiogram, and stress testing; additional tests were reserved for athletes with abnormal findings. Over an 11-year study period, 22 324 consecutive children [62% males; mean age, 12 (interquartile range, 10-14) years at first screening] underwent a total of 65 397 annual evaluations (median 2.9/child). Cardiovascular diseases at risk of SCD were identified in 69 children (0.3%) and included congenital heart diseases (n = 17), channelopathies (n = 14), cardiomyopathies (n = 15), non-ischaemic left ventricular scar with ventricular arrhythmias (n = 18), and others (n = 5). At-risk cardiovascular diseases were identified over the entire age range and more frequently in children ≥12 years old (n = 63, 91%) and on repeat evaluation (n = 44, 64%). The estimated cost per diagnosis was 73 312€. During a follow-up of 7.5 ± 3.7 years, one child with normal PPS findings experienced an episode of resuscitated cardiac arrest during sports activity (event rate of 0.6/100.000 athletes/year). CONCLUSION The PPS programme led to the identification of cardiovascular diseases at risk of SCD over the whole study age range of children and more often on repeat evaluations. Among screened children, the incidence of sport-related cardiac arrest during long-term follow-up was low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizio Sarto
- Sports Medicine Unit regional referral center for exercise prescription in young patients with heart diseases, AULSS 2, Via Castellana, 2, 31100 Treviso, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zorzi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via n. Giustiniani 2, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Laura Merlo
- Sports Medicine Unit regional referral center for exercise prescription in young patients with heart diseases, AULSS 2, Via Castellana, 2, 31100 Treviso, Italy
| | - Teresina Vessella
- Sports Medicine Unit regional referral center for exercise prescription in young patients with heart diseases, AULSS 2, Via Castellana, 2, 31100 Treviso, Italy
| | - Cinzia Pegoraro
- Sports Medicine Unit regional referral center for exercise prescription in young patients with heart diseases, AULSS 2, Via Castellana, 2, 31100 Treviso, Italy
| | - Flaviano Giorgiano
- Sports Medicine Unit regional referral center for exercise prescription in young patients with heart diseases, AULSS 2, Via Castellana, 2, 31100 Treviso, Italy
| | - Francesca Graziano
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via n. Giustiniani 2, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Cristina Basso
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via n. Giustiniani 2, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Jonathan A Drezner
- Center for Sports Cardiology, University of Washington, 3800 Montlake Blvd NE, Box 354060, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Domenico Corrado
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova, Via n. Giustiniani 2, 35121 Padova, Italy
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Finocchiaro G, Radaelli D, D'Errico S, Papadakis M, Behr ER, Sharma S, Westaby J, Sheppard MN. Sudden Cardiac Death Among Adolescents in the United Kingdom. J Am Coll Cardiol 2023; 81:1007-1017. [PMID: 36922085 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Causes and precipitating factors of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in adolescents are poorly understood. OBJECTIVES The authors sought to investigate the etiologies of SCD and their association with physical activity in a large cohort of adolescents. METHODS Between 1994 and June 2022, 7,675 cases of SCD were consecutively referred to our national cardiac pathology center; 756 (10%) were adolescents. All cases underwent detailed autopsy evaluation by expert cardiac pathologists. Clinical information was obtained from referring coroners. RESULTS A structurally normal heart, indicative of sudden arrhythmic death syndrome was the most common autopsy finding (n = 474; 63%). Myocardial diseases were detected in 163 cases (22%), including arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (n = 36; 5%), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (n = 31; 4%), idiopathic left ventricular hypertrophy (n = 31; 4%), and myocarditis (n = 30; 4%). Coronary artery anomalies were identified in 17 cases (2%). Decedents were competitive athletes in 128 cases (17%), and 159 decedents (21%) died during exercise. Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy was diagnosed in 8% of athletes compared with 4% of nonathletes (P = 0.05); coronary artery anomalies were significantly more common in athletes (9% vs 1%; P < 0.001), as well as commotio cordis (5% compared with 1% in nonathletes; P = 0.001). The 3 main comorbidities were asthma (n = 58; 8%), epilepsy (n = 44; 6%), and obesity (n = 40; 5%). CONCLUSIONS Sudden arrhythmic death syndrome and myocardial diseases are the most common conditions diagnosed at autopsy in adolescent victims of SCD. Among causes of SCD, arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, coronary artery anomalies, and commotio cordis are more common in young athletes than in similar age sedentary individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gherardo Finocchiaro
- Cardiovascular Sciences Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom; Cardiothoracic Centre, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom; King's College London, London, United Kingdom; Cardiovascular Research Centre, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Davide Radaelli
- Cardiovascular Sciences Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom; Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Stefano D'Errico
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Michael Papadakis
- Cardiovascular Sciences Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elijah R Behr
- Cardiovascular Sciences Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sanjay Sharma
- Cardiovascular Sciences Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Westaby
- Cardiovascular Sciences Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mary N Sheppard
- Cardiovascular Sciences Research Centre, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom.
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Genetically determined cardiomyopathies at autopsy: the pivotal role of the pathologist in establishing the diagnosis and guiding family screening. Virchows Arch 2023; 482:653-669. [PMID: 36897369 PMCID: PMC10067659 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-023-03523-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
Cardiomyopathies (CMP) comprise a heterogenous group of diseases affecting primarily the myocardium, either genetic and/or acquired in origin. While many classification systems have been proposed in the clinical setting, there is no internationally agreed pathological consensus concerning the diagnostic approach to inherited CMP at autopsy. A document on autopsy diagnosis of CMP is needed because the complexity of the pathologic backgrounds requires proper insight and expertise. In cases presenting with cardiac hypertrophy and/or dilatation/scarring with normal coronary arteries, a suspicion of inherited CMP must be considered, and a histological examination is essential. Establishing the actual cause of the disease may require a number of tissue-based and/or fluid-based investigations, be it histological, ultrastructural, or molecular. A history of illicit drug use must be looked for. Sudden death is frequently the first manifestation of disease in case of CMP, especially in the young. Also, during routine clinical or forensic autopsies, a suspicion of CMP may arise based on clinical data or pathological findings at autopsy. It is thus a challenge to make a diagnosis of a CMP at autopsy. The pathology report should provide the relevant data and a cardiac diagnosis which can help the family in furthering investigations, including genetic testing in case of genetic forms of CMP. With the explosion in molecular testing and the concept of the molecular autopsy, the pathologist should use strict criteria in the diagnosis of CMP, and helpful for clinical geneticists and cardiologists who advise the family as to the possibility of a genetic disease.
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Miliaresis C, Misra P, Friedman D, Altman R, Gewitz M. Increasing Utilization of the Preparticipation Physical Evaluation. Pediatrics 2023; 151:190623. [PMID: 36734089 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2020-049673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The American Heart Association and American Academy of Pediatrics endorse the preparticipation physical evaluation (PPE) to screen student athletes for the risk of sudden cardiac arrest. We sought to identify barriers precluding its use and improve utilization. METHODS We analyzed documentation of PPE elements during well-care visits of patients aged 12 to 18 years from 5 primary care practices. Employing quality improvement (QI) methodology, we focused on improving PPE utilization in 1 practice by assessing the number of PPE elements addressed per chart. We expanded our QI project to 4 additional practices by using the same interventions but assessing the percentage of charts that had a complete PPE documented. RESULTS A baseline analysis of 5 targeted practices revealed an average of 3.5 of 14 PPE elements documented. Using plan-do-study-act cycles, PPE elements addressed increased from 2.5 to 14 over an 18-month period in the initial practice. By spreading successful interventions to 4 other practices, complete PPE utilization increased from a median baseline of 10.0% to a median of 70.0% over a 12-month period. Postintervention, 12 of 16 patients (75%) required additional follow-up with pediatric cardiology beyond the initial consultation, as compared with 2 of 14 patients (14%) preintervention. CONCLUSION The PPE is an underutilized but effective tool in screening student athletes for sudden cardiac arrest. QI methodology was helpful in increasing the use of PPE in the primary care setting.
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Bonaventura J, Rowin EJ, Maron MS, Maron BJ. Risks of the Athletic Field Revisited: Report of Unusual Occurrences of Cardiac Arrest and Sudden Death in Professional Soccer Players. Am J Med 2023; 136:315-321. [PMID: 36495934 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2022.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sudden deaths in competitive athletes are highly visible but potentially preventable events that generate great interest amongst the cardiovascular community and general public. METHODS Internet searches were performed using a combination of keywords and operators to produce search results for sudden death or cardiac arrest on the field in professional soccer players. RESULTS We identified 35 male professional soccer players (mean age 26 ± 5 years) who experienced collapse and cardiac arrest on the field (most during matches) in Europe from December 2002 to February 2022 with 63% in the last 6 years. Twenty-five have died on the field or later in a hospital despite cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Of the 10 survivors, eight were implanted with cardioverter-defibrillators for secondary (n = 6) or primary (n = 2) prevention and returned to full competition; five of the 8 required successful device therapy during matches or training. CONCLUSIONS Cardiac arrest and sudden death can occur not uncommonly in professional athletes highly trained over decades and participating at an elite sports level. Our observations also underscore the importance of targeted preparticipation cardiovascular screening, and availability of external defibrillators on the playing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiri Bonaventura
- Department of Cardiology, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic; Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Mass
| | - Ethan J Rowin
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Mass
| | - Martin S Maron
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Mass
| | - Barry J Maron
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Center, Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, Mass
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Sudden Cardiac Death in Athletes: Facts and Fallacies. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2023; 10:jcdd10020068. [PMID: 36826564 PMCID: PMC9965876 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd10020068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The benefits of exercise for cardiovascular and general health are many. However, sudden cardiac death (SCD) may occur in apparently healthy athletes who perform at the highest levels. A diverse spectrum of diseases is implicated in SCD in athletes, and while atherosclerotic coronary artery disease predominates in individuals of >35 years of age, primary cardiomyopathies and ion channelopathies are prevalent in young individuals. Prevention of SCD in athletes relies on the implementation of health policies aimed at the early identification of arrhythmogenic diseases (such as cardiac screening) and successful resuscitation (such as widespread utilization of automatic external defibrillators and training members of the public on cardiopulmonary resuscitation). This review will focus on the epidemiology and aetiologies of SCD in athletes, and examine fallacies in the approach to this controversial field. Furthermore, potential strategies to prevent these tragic events will be discussed, analysing current practice, gaps in knowledge and future directions.
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