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Malmgren A, Trägårdh E, Gudmundsson P, Kjellström B, Stagmo M, Dencker M. Electrocardiographic manifestations in female team handball players: analyzing ECG changes in athletes. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1384483. [PMID: 38737439 PMCID: PMC11084279 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1384483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Long-term intense training leads to structural, functional, and electrical remodeling of the heart. How different sports affect the heart has not been fully investigated, particularly for female athletes. The aim of the present study was to investigate the morphology of 12-lead resting electrocardiogram (ECG) in elite female handball players compared to non-athlete female subjects. Potential changes will be explored to see if they could be explained by differences in cardiac dimensions and exercise hours. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study of 33 elite female team handball players compared to 33 sex and age-matched, non-athletic controls (age range 18-26 years) was performed. All participants underwent a resting 12-lead ECG and an echocardiographic examination. ECG variables for left ventricular hypertrophy and durations were evaluated and adjusted for cardiac dimensions and exercise hours using ANCOVA analysis. A linear regression analysis was used to describe relation between echocardiographic and ECG measures and exercise hours. Results The female handball players had larger cardiac dimensions and significantly lower heart rate and QTc duration (Bazett's formula) as well as increased QRS and QT durations compared to controls. The 12-lead sum of voltage and the 12-lead sum of voltage ∗ QRS were significantly higher among handball players. Changes in ECG variables reflecting the left ventricle could in part be explained by left ventricular size and exercise hours. Correlation with exercise hours were moderately strong in most of the echocardiographic measures reflecting left ventricular (LV), left ventricular mass (LVM), left atrium (LA) and right atrium (RA) size. Poor to fair correlations were seen in the majority of ECG measures. Conclusions Female team handball players had altered ECGs, longer QRS and QT durations, higher 12-lead sum of voltage and 12-lead sum of voltage ∗ QRS as well as shorter QTc (Bazett's formula) duration compared to non-athletic controls. These findings could only partly be explained by differences in left ventricular size. Despite larger atrial size in the athletes, no differences in P-wave amplitude and duration were found on ECG. This suggest that both structural, and to some degree electrical remodeling, occur in the female team handball players' heart and highlight that a normal ECG does not rule out structural adaptations. The present study adds knowledge to the field of sports cardiology regarding how the heart in female team handball players adapts to this type of sport.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Malmgren
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Department of Medical Imaging and Physiology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - E. Trägårdh
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Department of Medical Imaging and Physiology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - P. Gudmundsson
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Health and Society, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - B. Kjellström
- Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Clinical Physiology and Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - M. Stagmo
- Department of Cardiology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - M. Dencker
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Department of Medical Imaging and Physiology, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
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Al-Othman S, Boyett MR, Morris GM, Malhotra A, Mesirca P, Mangoni ME, D'Souza A. Symptomatic bradyarrhythmias in the athlete-Underlying mechanisms and treatments. Heart Rhythm 2024:S1547-5271(24)00222-4. [PMID: 38428449 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2024.02.050] [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: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Bradyarrhythmias including sinus bradycardia and atrioventricular (AV) block are frequently encountered in endurance athletes especially at night. While these are well tolerated by the young athlete, there is evidence that generally from the fifth decade of life onward, such arrhythmias can degenerate into pathological symptomatic bradycardia requiring pacemaker therapy. For many years, athletic bradycardia and AV block have been attributed to high vagal tone, but work from our group has questioned this widely held assumption and demonstrated a role for intrinsic electrophysiological remodeling of the sinus node and the AV node. In this article, we argue that bradyarrhythmias in the veteran athlete arise from the cumulative effects of exercise training, the circadian rhythm and aging on the electrical activity of the nodes. We consider contemporary strategies for the treatment of symptomatic bradyarrhythmias in athletes and highlight potential therapies resulting from our evolving mechanistic understanding of this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sami Al-Othman
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R Boyett
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, United Kingdom.
| | - Gwilym M Morris
- Cardiology Department, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aneil Malhotra
- Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University and Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Pietro Mesirca
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France; Laboratory of Excellence "Ion Channel Science and Therapeutics" (ICST), Montpellier, France
| | - Matteo E Mangoni
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, INSERM, Montpellier, France; Laboratory of Excellence "Ion Channel Science and Therapeutics" (ICST), Montpellier, France
| | - Alicia D'Souza
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Montalvo S, Froelicher VF, Hadley D, Wheeler MT. Digitized Electrocardiography Measurements Support the Biological Plausibility of the Pathological Significance of ST Segments in Athletes. Clin J Sport Med 2024:00042752-990000000-00177. [PMID: 38407231 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000001199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE ST segment deviations around the isoelectric line are common findings in manifest cardiovascular disease. In athletes, ST elevation is common, while ST depression is considered rare. However, clinical studies in athletes have associated ST depression with myocardial fibrosis and fatty infiltration and ST elevation with pericarditis and myocarditis. This study aims to explore the association between resting ST segment deviations and resting heart rate, an indicator of training and autonomic tone and electrocardiography (ECG) markers of exercise training effect and cardiovascular health R and T wave amplitude. DESIGN Retrospective analysis of digitized ECG data. SETTING Institutional setting. PARTICIPANTS Seven thousand eight hundred thirty-six (male athletes = 4592, female athletes = 3244) healthy asymptomatic athletes (14-35 years). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES A series of correlations and regressions were conducted between ST depression (<0.0 µV) and ST elevation (>0.0 µV), on R and T wave amplitudes, and heart rate in leads V2, V5, and aVF. RESULTS Positive correlations between ST elevation and R and T wave (S wave in V2) amplitudes and leads V5, V2, and aVF in male and female athletes (range of r = 0.1-0.54). In addition, there was a negative correlation between ST elevation and HR for male and female athletes. Finally, there was a negative correlation between ST depression and R wave and HR for male and female athletes in V5 (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS In athletes, ST segment elevation is correlated with R and T wave amplitudes and negatively correlated with HR. In addition, ST segment elevation is correlated with low heart rate, consistent with its higher prevalence in athletes. ST segment depression is not influenced by HR but is negatively associated with R and T wave amplitudes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Montalvo
- Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance, Stanford University, Stanford, California,
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- Stanford Sports Cardiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California; and
| | - Victor F Froelicher
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- Stanford Sports Cardiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California; and
| | | | - Matthew T Wheeler
- Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance, Stanford University, Stanford, California,
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
- Stanford Sports Cardiology, Stanford University, Stanford, California; and
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4
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Pagani A, Hellwig LD, Dobson CP, Hughes BN, Schacht JP, Haigney M. Exercise-induced QTc prolongation and implications for military service members: A case series. HeartRhythm Case Rep 2023; 9:759-763. [PMID: 38047202 PMCID: PMC10691940 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrcr.2023.07.023] [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: 12/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Austin Pagani
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, Maryland
- Center for Military Precision Health (CMPH), Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Lydia D. Hellwig
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, Maryland
- Center for Military Precision Health (CMPH), Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Craig P. Dobson
- Department of Pediatric Subspecialties, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Brian N. Hughes
- Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - John P. Schacht
- Department of Pediatric Subspecialties, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Mark Haigney
- Military Cardiovascular Outcomes Research, Department of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
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Mahendran S, Gupta I, Davis J, Davis AJ, Orchard JW, Orchard JJ. Comparison of methods for correcting QT interval in athletes and young people: A systematic review. Clin Cardiol 2023; 46:1106-1115. [PMID: 37470093 PMCID: PMC10540007 DOI: 10.1002/clc.24093] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Screening elite athletes for conditions associated with sudden cardiac death is recommended by numerous international guidelines. Current athlete electrocardiogram interpretation criteria recommend the Bazett formula (QTcB) for correcting QT interval. However, other formulae may perform better at lower and higher heart rates (HR). This review aimed to examine the literature on various QT correction methods in athletes and young people aged 14-35 years and determine the most accurate method of calculating QTc in this population. A systematic review of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, and SportDiscus was performed. Papers comparing at least two different methods of QT interval correction in athletes or young people were included. Quality and risk of bias were assessed using a standardized tool. The search strategy identified 545 papers, of which 10 met the criteria and were included. Nine of these studies concluded that QTcB was least reliable for removing the effect of HR and was inaccurate at both high (>90 beats per min [BPM]) and low (<60 BPM) HRs. No studies supported the use of QTcB in athletes and young people. Alternative QT correction algorithms such as Fridericia (QTcF) produce more accurate correction of QT interval at HRs seen in athletes and young people. QTcB is less accurate at lower and higher HRs. QTcF has been shown to be more accurate in these HR ranges and may be preferred to QTcB for QTc calculation in athletes and young people. However, accurate QTc reference values for discrete HRs using alternative algorithms are not well established and require further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shehane Mahendran
- Sydney School of Public HealthThe University of SydneySydneyAustralia
| | - Ishita Gupta
- Sydney School of Public HealthThe University of SydneySydneyAustralia
| | - Jason Davis
- Sydney School of Public HealthThe University of SydneySydneyAustralia
- Royal Brisbane and Women's HospitalBrisbaneAustralia
- School of MedicineUniversity of QueenslandBrisbaneAustralia
| | - Angus J. Davis
- Sydney School of Public HealthThe University of SydneySydneyAustralia
| | - John W. Orchard
- Sydney School of Public HealthThe University of SydneySydneyAustralia
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Pallikadavath S, Richards C, Bountziouka V, Sandilands AJ, Graham-Brown MPM, Robinson T, Singh A, McCann GP. The AFLETES Study: Atrial Fibrillation in Veteran Athletes and the Risk of Stroke. Clin J Sport Med 2023; 33:209-216. [PMID: 37042823 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000001115] [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] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Endurance athletes are at an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) when compared with the general population. However, the risk of stroke in athletes with AF is unknown. DESIGN AND SETTING We aimed to assess this risk using an international online survey. PATIENTS Individuals that had competed in ≥1 competitive events and were ≥40 years old were included. INTERVENTIONS Self-reported demographic, medical history, and training history data were collected, and a CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc was calculated. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Binary logistic regression was used to assess variables associated with AF and stroke. RESULTS There were 1002 responses from participants in 41 countries across Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, and North and South America, and 942 were included in the final analysis. The average age was 52.4 ± 8.5 years, and 84% were male. The most common sports were cycling (n = 677, 72%), running (n = 558, 59%), and triathlon (n = 245, 26%). There were 190 (20%) individuals who reported AF and 26 individuals (3%) who reported stroke; of which, 14 (54%) had AF. Lifetime exercise dose [odds ratio (OR), 1.02, 95% confidence interval (95% CI),1.00-1.03, P = 0.02] and swimming (OR, 1.56, 95% CI, 1.02-2.39, P = 0.04) were associated with AF in multivariable analysis, independent of other risk factors. Atrial fibrillation was associated with stroke (OR, 4.18, 95% CI, 1.80-9.72, P < 0.01), even in individuals with a low (0/1) CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score (OR, 4.20, 95% CI, 1.83-9.66, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS This survey provides early evidence that veteran endurance athletes who develop AF may be at an increased risk of developing stroke, even in those deemed to be at low risk by CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susil Pallikadavath
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester and the National Institute of Health Research Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, Leicester, United Kingdom
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Ho WHH, Lim DYZ, Thiagarajan N, Wang H, Loo WTW, Sng GGR, Lee JSW, Shen X, Dalakoti M, Sia C, Tan BYQ, Lim HY, Wang L, Chow W, Chua TSJ, Lim PCY, Yeo TJ, Chong DTT. Outcomes of Investigating T Wave Inversion With Echocardiography in an Unselected Young Male Preparticipation Cohort. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e026975. [PMID: 36942750 PMCID: PMC10122903 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.122.026975] [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: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electrocardiography (ECG) may be performed as part of preparticipation sports screening. Recommendations on screening of athletes to identify individuals with previously unrecognized cardiac disease are robust; however, data guiding the preparticipation screening of unselected populations are scarce. T wave inversion (TWI) on ECG may suggest an undiagnosed cardiomyopathy. This study aims to describe the prevalence of abnormal TWI in an unselected young male cohort and the outcomes of an echocardiography-guided approach to investigating these individuals for structural heart diseases, focusing on the yield for cardiomyopathies. METHODS AND RESULTS Consecutive young male individuals undergoing a national preparticipation cardiac screening program for 39 months were studied. All underwent resting supine 12-lead ECG. Those manifesting abnormal TWI, defined as negatively deflected T waves of at least 0.1 mV amplitude in any 2 contiguous leads, underwent echocardiography. A total of 69 714 male individuals with a mean age of 17.9±1.1 years were studied. Of the individuals, 562 (0.8%) displayed abnormal TWI. This was most frequently observed in the anterior territory and least so in the lateral territory. A total of 12 individuals (2.1%) were diagnosed with a cardiomyopathy. Cardiomyopathy diagnoses were significantly associated with deeper maximum TWI depth and the presence of abnormal TWI in the lateral territory, but not with abnormal TWI in the anterior and inferior territories. No individual presenting with TWI restricted to solely leads V1 to V2, 2 inferior leads or both was diagnosed with a cardiomyopathy. CONCLUSIONS Cardiomyopathy diagnoses were more strongly associated with certain patterns of abnormal TWI. Our findings may support decisions to prioritize echocardiography in these individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilbert H. H. Ho
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
| | - Daniel Y. Z. Lim
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
| | - Nishanth Thiagarajan
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
| | - Hankun Wang
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
| | - Wesley T. W. Loo
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
| | - Gerald G. R. Sng
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
| | - Joshua S. W. Lee
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
| | - Xiayan Shen
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
- Department of CardiologyNational Heart Centre SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Mayank Dalakoti
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
- Department of CardiologyNational University Heart Centre SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Department of MedicineYong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Ching‐Hui Sia
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
- Department of CardiologyNational University Heart Centre SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Department of MedicineYong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Benjamin Y. Q. Tan
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
- Department of MedicineYong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- University Medicine ClusterNational University Health SystemSingaporeSingapore
| | - Huai Yang Lim
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
| | - Luo‐Kai Wang
- HQ Medical Corps, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
| | - Weien Chow
- Department of CardiologyChangi General HospitalSingaporeSingapore
| | | | - Paul C. Y. Lim
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
- Department of CardiologyNational Heart Centre SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Tee Joo Yeo
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
- Department of CardiologyNational University Heart Centre SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Department of MedicineYong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Daniel T. T. Chong
- Medical Classification CentreCentral Manpower Base, Singapore Armed ForcesSingaporeSingapore
- Department of CardiologyNational Heart Centre SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
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Aymen Mohamed BA, Anis G, Ahmed FR, Zied BA, Hatem B, Mahdhaoui A, Samia EH. [Correlation between changes in electrocardiographic and echocardiographic measurements and the nature of the sport practiced]. Ann Cardiol Angeiol (Paris) 2023; 72:101580. [PMID: 36872127 DOI: 10.1016/j.ancard.2023.02.001] [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: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Intense and regular sports practice leads to electrical and morphological cardiac remodeling. The aim of this study was to investigate a correlation between electrocardiographic and echocardiographic changes and the nature of the sport practiced. METHODS Retrospective study of the electrocardiogram and echocardiography of competitive athletes recruited in the medical-sports center of Sousse RESULTS: A total of 554 athletes were included. The mean age was 16.1 ± 2.9 years and 69% were male. The average training time was 5.8 hours per week. In the population, 319 (57.6%) subjects practiced an endurance sport vs. 235 (42.4%) subjects who practiced a resistance sport. Sinus bradycardia was noted in 70 (21.9%) endurance athletes vs. 30 (12.8%) resistance athletes (p = 0.005). Long PR interval was recorded in 12 endurance athletes vs. 3 cases among resistance athletes (p = 0.046). A right bundle branch bloc was reported more frequently among endurance athletes: 55 (17.2%) vs. 22 (9.4%); (p = 0.004). The mean value of the Sokolow-Lyon index was 31.51 ± 10.34 mm in endurance athletes vs. 29.72 ± 9.41 mm in resistance athletes (p = 0.037). Systolic ejection fraction was significantly lower in endurance athletes compared to resistance athletes (66.08 ± 4.73% vs. 68.1 ± 4.90%; p = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS This study showed that electrical abnormalities in athletes, considered physiological, are more frequent among endurance athletes. Therefore, sport-specific criteria need to be developed for a more appropriate approach to screening for electrical abnormalities in athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ghariani Anis
- Service de cardiologie, Centre hospital-universitaire Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisie.
| | - Fekih Romdhane Ahmed
- Service de cardiologie, Centre hospital-universitaire Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisie
| | - Ben Ameur Zied
- Service de cardiologie, Centre hospital-universitaire Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisie
| | - Bouraoui Hatem
- Service de cardiologie, Centre hospital-universitaire Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisie
| | - Abdelah Mahdhaoui
- Service de cardiologie, Centre hospital-universitaire Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisie; Université de Sousse, Laboratoire de recherche : LR14ES05 : Interaction du système cardio-pulmonaire, Faculté de Médecine de Sousse, Tunisie
| | - Ernez-Hajri Samia
- Service de cardiologie, Centre hospital-universitaire Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisie; Hôpital Farhat Hached de Sousse, Laboratoire de recherche : LRSP09 : Insuffisance cardiaque, Tunisie
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9
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Relating QRS voltages to left ventricular mass and body composition in elite endurance athletes. Eur J Appl Physiol 2023; 123:547-559. [PMID: 36376599 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-022-05080-5] [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: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Electrocardiogram (ECG) QRS voltages correlate poorly with left ventricular mass (LVM). Body composition explains some of the QRS voltage variability. The relation between QRS voltages, LVM and body composition in endurance athletes is unknown. METHODS Elite endurance athletes from the Pro@Heart trial were evaluated with 12-lead ECG for Cornell and Sokolow-Lyon voltage and product. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging assessed LVM. Dual energy x-ray absorptiometry assessed fat mass (FM) and lean mass of the trunk and whole body (LBM). The determinants of QRS voltages and LVM were identified by multivariable linear regression. Models combining ECG, demographics, DEXA and exercise capacity to predict LVM were developed. RESULTS In 122 athletes (19 years, 71.3% male) LVM was a determinant of the Sokolow-Lyon voltage and product (β = 0.334 and 0.477, p < 0.001) but not of the Cornell criteria. FM of the trunk (β = - 0.186 and - 0.180, p < 0.05) negatively influenced the Cornell voltage and product but not the Sokolow-Lyon criteria. DEXA marginally improved the prediction of LVM by ECG (r = 0.773 vs 0.510, p < 0.001; RMSE = 18.9 ± 13.8 vs 25.5 ± 18.7 g, p > 0.05) with LBM as the strongest predictor (β = 0.664, p < 0.001). DEXA did not improve the prediction of LVM by ECG and demographics combined and LVM was best predicted by including VO2max (r = 0.845, RMSE = 15.9 ± 11.6 g). CONCLUSION LVM correlates poorly with QRS voltages with adipose tissue as a minor determinant in elite endurance athletes. LBM is the strongest single predictor of LVM but only marginally improves LVM prediction beyond ECG variables. In endurance athletes, LVM is best predicted by combining ECG, demographics and VO2max.
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10
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Abela M, Yamagata K, Buttigieg L, Xuereb S, Bonello J, Soler JF, Camilleri W, Grech N, Xuereb R, Sapiano K, Abela E, Callus A, Farrugia M, Felice T, Burg M, Sammut M, Xuereb RG, Grech V. The juvenile ECG pattern in adolescent athletes and non-athletes in a national cardiac screening program (BEAT-IT). Int J Cardiol 2023; 371:508-515. [PMID: 36087635 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2022.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anterior T wave inversion (TWI) is frequent in healthy adolescent individuals (juvenile ECG pattern), normalising after puberty. Its clinical implications are uncertain. AIM This study assessed a) national prevalence of anterior TWI, b) ST segment morphology, c) proportion of individuals with a juvenile ECG pattern whose ECG normalises and d) factors predicting TWI persistence >16 years. METHODS Adolescents (mean 15y) in Malta were systematically invited to enrol in a cardiac screening program. Subjects completed a health questionnaire and an ECG at their school. Participants with TWI were labelled as TWI in V1-V2 or extended TWI (V1-V3/4). The latter were followed at 1 year with a repeat ECG. Those with persistent extended anterior TWI were offered evaluation and surveillance. RESULTS The prevalence of isolated anterior TWI was 5.0%, commoner in females (6.3%) independent of athletic ability. Extended TWI was commoner in female athletes (4.2%, non-athletes 2.1%). Females often had shallow TWI without overt ST segment abnormalities. Deep TWI and ST segment changes were more frequent in males. Only 0.2% of cases persisted ≥16 years of age. ST segment characteristics were not able to predict T wave normalisation. No events took place during follow up (40 ± 9 months). CONCLUSION Anterior TWI is a frequent phenomenon in adolescents, especially in females. Female athletes are also more likely to have extended anterior TWI. Only 0.2% of cases have persistent anterior TWI at 16 years of age. Chest wall anatomy may explain this phenomenon in females. It is uncommon in males, hence why surveillance is more prudent.
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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.
| | | | - Lisa Buttigieg
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Sara Xuereb
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - John Bonello
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | | | | | - Neil Grech
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Rachel Xuereb
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Karl Sapiano
- 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
| | - Tiziana Felice
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Melanie Burg
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Mark Sammut
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Tal-Qroqq, Malta
| | - Robert G Xuereb
- 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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11
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Low Risk of Cardiac Complications in Collegiate Athletes After Asymptomatic or Mild COVID-19 Infection. Clin J Sport Med 2022; 32:382-386. [PMID: 35762862 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000001043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine the utility of "standard" cardiac screening with EKG, echocardiography, and serum troponin T (hs-Tn T) testing after COVID infection in competitive college athletes. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Tertiary cardiology clinic, university training room. PARTICIPANTS Sixty-five Division 1 athletes recovered from COVID-19 and 465 controls. ASSESSMENT All COVID-recovered athletes underwent cardiac screening on return to campus in fall 2020. Controls were screened if indicated by preparticipation examination. Students cleared for sports participation were followed for the development of cardiac complications. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Incidence of cardiac complications after COVID infection. RESULTS Infected athletes experienced mild (26/65), moderate (8/65), or no (31/65) COVID symptoms. No athletes had severe symptoms. Men were more likely to have been asymptomatic (20/31), and women were more likely to have had moderate (7/8) symptoms (P = 0.015). All athletes, except 2 with anosmia, were asymptomatic at the time of cardiac testing. One athlete had persistently elevated hs-Tn T but no evidence of myocarditis on cardiac MRI. All other cardiac testing was negative. No athletes were diagnosed with myocarditis (95% CI: 0%-5.5%). All athletes were cleared for athletic participation. None suffered complications over the next 9 months. CONCLUSIONS After COVID-19 infection, no college athletes with mild, moderate, or no symptoms had signs of myocarditis, and all returned to play without cardiac complication. These findings support consensus opinion recommendations that college-age athletes who recovered from COVID-19 and who experienced mild or no symptoms may return to play without cardiac testing.
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12
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Nissen SD, Weis R, Krag-Andersen EK, Hesselkilde EM, Isaksen JL, Carstensen H, Kanters JK, Linz D, Sanders P, Hopster-Iversen C, Jespersen T, Pehrson S, Buhl R. Electrocardiographic characteristics of trained and untrained standardbred racehorses. J Vet Intern Med 2022; 36:1119-1130. [PMID: 35488721 PMCID: PMC9151491 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Long‐term exercise induces cardiac remodeling that potentially influences the electrical properties of the heart. Hypothesis/objectives We assessed whether training alters cardiac conduction in Standardbred racehorses. Animals Two hundred one trained and 52 untrained Standardbred horses. Methods Cross‐sectional study. Resting ECG recordings were analyzed to assess heart rate (HR) along with standard ECG parameters and for identification of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. An electrophysiological study was performed in 13 horses assessing the effect of training on sinoatrial (SA) and atrioventricular (AV) nodal function by sinus node recovery time (SNRT) and His signal recordings. Age and sex adjustments were implemented in multiple and logistic regression models for comparison. Results Resting HR in beats per minute (bpm) was lower in trained vs untrained horses (mean, 30.8 ± 2.6 bpm vs 32.9 ± 4.2 bpm; P = .001). Trained horses more often displayed second‐degree atrioventricular block (2AVB; odds ratio, 2.59; P = .04). No difference in SNRT was found between groups (n = 13). Mean P‐A, A‐H, and H‐V intervals were 71 ± 20, 209 ± 41, and 134 ± 41 ms, respectively (n = 7). We did not detect a training effect on AV‐nodal conduction intervals. His signals were present in 1 horse during 2AVB with varying H‐V interval preceding a blocked beat. Conclusions and Clinical Importance We identified decreased HR and increased frequency of 2AVB in trained horses. In 5 of 7 horses, His signal recordings had variable H‐V intervals within each individual horse, providing novel insight into AV conduction in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah D Nissen
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rikke Weis
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Elisabeth K Krag-Andersen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Eva M Hesselkilde
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jonas L Isaksen
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helena Carstensen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Jørgen K Kanters
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dominik Linz
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Prashanthan Sanders
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Charlotte Hopster-Iversen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Thomas Jespersen
- Laboratory of Cardiac Physiology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Steen Pehrson
- Department of Cardiology 2142, The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark
| | - Rikke Buhl
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
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13
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Gupta A, Bansal N, Jour LS, Clark BC. Utility of Exercise Stress Testing in Pediatric Patients with T-Wave Inversions. Pediatr Cardiol 2022; 43:713-718. [PMID: 34820701 DOI: 10.1007/s00246-021-02776-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
T-wave inversions (TWI) in inferolateral electrocardiogram (ECG) leads (II, III, aVF, V5-V6) are often suggestive of cardiac pathology in adult patients. They are a common reason of additional testing in pediatric patients. The goal of the study is to determine correlation of exercise stress test T-wave response with diagnosis of cardiac pathology. This is a retrospective review of pediatric patients < 21 years with the finding of baseline TWI in inferior (II, III, avF) and/or lateral (V5-V6) leads on 12-lead ECG. All patients underwent treadmill exercise stress test (EST) and an echocardiogram within 1 year of each other. Demographics, baseline ECG findings, echocardiogram results, and EST data were recorded. T-wave reversion was considered complete if T waves demonstrated normalization during exercise, partial if there was minimal improvement, and no response if there was no change or worsening of inversions. In our cohort of 72 patients with a mean age 14.6 (± 2.9) years and 61% males, 59 (82%) had a structurally normal heart. Thirteen patients had evidence of structural or functional heart disease. Of the 59 patients, 83% had either complete or partial T-wave response. Among the 13 patients with heart disease, two patients had genetic testing consistent with risk for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and had complete and partial response on EST. Exercise stress testing for TWI in pediatric patients has low sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of cardiac disease and routine use in this patient population may not be indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Gupta
- Department of Pediatrics, Lincoln Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Neha Bansal
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Leslie Saint Jour
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Bradley C Clark
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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14
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Heidbuchel H, Adami PE, Antz M, Braunschweig F, Delise P, Scherr D, Solberg EE, Wilhelm M, Pelliccia A. Recommendations for participation in leisure-time physical activity and competitive sports in patients with arrhythmias and potentially arrhythmogenic conditions: Part 1: Supraventricular arrhythmias. A position statement of the Section of Sports Cardiology and Exercise from the European Association of Preventive Cardiology (EAPC) and the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA), both associations of the European Society of Cardiology. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2021; 28:1539-1551. [PMID: 32597206 DOI: 10.1177/2047487320925635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Symptoms attributable to arrhythmias are frequently encountered in clinical practice. Cardiologists and sport physicians are required to identify high-risk individuals harbouring such conditions and provide appropriate advice regarding participation in regular exercise programmes and competitive sport. The three aspects that need to be considered are: (a) the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias by participating in sports; (b) control of symptoms due to arrhythmias that are not life-threatening but may hamper performance and/or reduce the quality of life; and (c) the impact of sports on the natural progression of the underlying arrhythmogenic condition. In many cases, there is no unequivocal answer to each aspect and therefore an open discussion with the athlete is necessary, in order to reach a balanced decision. In 2006 the Sports Cardiology and Exercise Section of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology published recommendations for participation in leisure-time physical activity and competitive sport in individuals with arrhythmias and potentially arrhythmogenic conditions. More than a decade on, these recommendations are partly obsolete given the evolving knowledge of the diagnosis, management and treatment of these conditions. The present document presents a combined effort by the Sports Cardiology and Exercise Section of the European Association of Preventive Cardiology and the European Heart Rhythm Association to offer a comprehensive overview of the most updated recommendations for practising cardiologists and sport physicians managing athletes with supraventricular arrhythmias, and provides pragmatic advice for safe participation in recreational physical activities, as well as competitive sport at amateur and professional level. A companion text on recommendations in athletes with ventricular arrhythmias, inherited arrhythmogenic conditions, pacemakers and implantable defibrillators is published as Part 2 in Europace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hein Heidbuchel
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Paolo E Adami
- Italian National Olympic Committee, Institute of Sport Medicine and Science, Italy
| | - Matthias Antz
- Department of Electrophysiology, Hospital Braunschweig, Germany
| | | | | | - Daniel Scherr
- Department of Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Austria
| | | | | | - Antonio Pelliccia
- Italian National Olympic Committee, Institute of Sport Medicine and Science, Italy
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15
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Kairiukstiene Z, Poderiene K, Velicka D, Trinkunas E, Poderys J. Cardiovascular functional limitations for sprint-type tasks in health promotion sessions. Sci Sports 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scispo.2021.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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16
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Morrison B, Mohammad A, Oxborough D, Somauroo J, Lindsay S, Drane AL, Shave R, George K. The 12-lead electrocardiogram of the elite female footballer as defined by different interpretation criteria across the competitive season. Eur J Sport Sci 2021; 22:1475-1483. [PMID: 34374331 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2021.1966103] [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: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTPre-participation screening (PPS), using a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG), is recommended to identify athletes at risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). ECG interpretation criteria have been developed to address the concern arising from high false-positives in athletes. There are limited ECG data in elite female footballers. The aims of this study were to (1) compare the ECG outcomes using three published ECG criteria (European Society of Cardiology [ESC], Seattle, International) in elite female footballers and (2) compare ECG data at three different stages of a competitive season. Eighty-one elite female footballers (21 ± 4 yr) completed a medical assessment, anthropometrics, resting blood pressure and a resting 12-lead ECG. Each 12-lead ECG was interpreted in accordance with (1) ESC; (2) Seattle; (3) International Criteria to determine training-related and non-training-related ECG changes. A subset of thirteen (26 ± 4 yr) footballers had repeated resting ECG tests at three time points across the competitive season. Eighty percent of females had training-related ECG patterns. Sinus bradycardia (65%) and early repolarization (42%) were the most common. Using the ESC Criteria 25% (20/81) of the athletes were considered to have an abnormal ECG, compared to 0% using the Seattle and International Criteria, mainly due to alterations in QT length criteria. There were no clinically significant differences in ECG data across a competitive season. The Seattle and International ECG Criteria significantly reduced the number of ECG false-positives in elite female footballers and the time point of PPS within a competitive season is unlikely to alter the PPS outcomes.Abbreviations: AMSSM: American Medical Society for Sports Medicine; ANOVA: Analysis of Variance; BSA: Body Surface Area; ECG: Electrocardiogram; ESC: European Society of Cardiology; FA: Football Association; FIFA: The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA); F-MARC: FIFA Medical Assessment and Research Centre; LAE: Left atrial enlargement; LVH: Left ventricular hypertrophy; PPS: Pre-participation screening; SCD: Sudden cardiac death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Morrison
- Sports Cardiology BC, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.,Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Aleah Mohammad
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - David Oxborough
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - John Somauroo
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sarah Lindsay
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Aimee L Drane
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Rob Shave
- School of Health and Exercise Sciences, University of British Columbia, Okanagan, Canada
| | - Keith George
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
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17
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Bayonas-Ruiz A, Muñoz-Franco FM, Ferrer V, Pérez-Caballero C, Sabater-Molina M, Tomé-Esteban MT, Bonacasa B. Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10112312. [PMID: 34070695 PMCID: PMC8198116 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10112312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with chronic diseases frequently adapt their lifestyles to their functional limitations. Functional capacity in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) can be assessed by stress testing. We aim to review and analyze the available data from the literature on the value of Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test (CPET) in HCM. Objective measurements from CPET are used for evaluation of patient response to traditional and new developing therapeutic measurements. METHODS A systematic review of the literature was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane in Mar-20. The original search yielded 2628 results. One hundred and two full texts were read after the first screening, of which, 69 were included for qualitative synthesis. Relevant variables to be included in the review were set and 17 were selected, including comorbidities, body mass index (BMI), cardiac-related symptoms, echocardiographic variables, medications and outcomes. RESULTS Study sample consisted of 69 research articles, including 11,672 patients (48 ± 14 years old, 65.9%/34.1% men/women). Treadmill was the most common instrument employed (n = 37 studies), followed by upright cycle-ergometer (n = 16 studies). Mean maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) was 22.3 ± 3.8 mL·kg-1·min-1. The highest average values were observed in supine and upright cycle-ergometer (25.3 ± 6.5 and 24.8 ± 9.1 mL·kg-1·min-1; respectively). Oxygen consumption in the anaerobic threshold (ATVO2) was reported in 18 publications. Left ventricular outflow tract gradient (LVOT) > 30 mmHg was present at baseline in 31.4% of cases. It increased to 49% during exercise. Proportion of abnormal blood pressure response (ABPRE) was higher in severe (>20 mm) vs. mild hypertrophy groups (17.9% vs. 13.6%, p < 0.001). Mean VO2max was not significantly different between severe vs. milder hypertrophy, or for obstructive vs. non-obstructive groups. Occurrence of arrhythmias during functional assessment was higher among younger adults (5.42% vs. 1.69% in older adults, p < 0.001). Twenty-three publications (9145 patients) evaluated the prognostic value of exercise capacity. There were 8.5% total deaths, 6.7% cardiovascular deaths, 3.0% sudden cardiac deaths (SCD), 1.2% heart failure death, 0.6% resuscitated cardiac arrests, 1.1% transplants, 2.6% implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapies and 1.2 strokes (mean follow-up: 3.81 ± 2.77 years). VO2max, ATVO2, METs, % of age-gender predicted VO2max, % of age-gender predicted METs, ABPRE and ventricular arrhythmias were significantly associated with major outcomes individually. Mean VO2max was reduced in patients who reached the combined cardiovascular death outcome compared to those who survived (-6.20 mL·kg-1·min-1; CI 95%: -7.95, -4.46; p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS CPET is a valuable tool and can safely perform for assessment of physical functional capacity in patients with HCM. VO2max is the most common performance measurement evaluated in functional studies, showing higher values in those based on cycle-ergometer compared to treadmill. Subgroup analysis shows that exercise intolerance seems to be more related to age, medication and comorbidities than HCM phenotype itself. Lower VO2max is consistently seen in HCM patients at major cardiovascular risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián Bayonas-Ruiz
- Human Physiology Area, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Murcia, Santiago de la Ribera-San Javier, 30720 Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Vicente Ferrer
- Physiotherapy Department, Faculty of Medicine, Campus of Espinardo, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Carlos Pérez-Caballero
- Sports Activities Service, Campus of Espinardo, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - María Sabater-Molina
- Inherited Cardiopathies Unit, Virgen de la Arrixaca University Hospital, El Palmar, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - María Teresa Tomé-Esteban
- Cardiovascular Clinical Academic Group, Inherited Cardiovascular Disease Unit, St George's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, St George's University of London, London SW17 0QT, UK
| | - Bárbara Bonacasa
- Human Physiology Area, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Murcia, Santiago de la Ribera-San Javier, 30720 Murcia, Spain
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18
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Wen X, Huang YM, Shen TH, Gong YL, Dong RQ, Xia L, Xie TS. Prevalence of abnormal and borderline electrocardiogram changes in 13, 079 Chinese amateur marathon runners. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2021; 13:41. [PMID: 33879236 PMCID: PMC8056690 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-021-00268-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) has been adopted as an important component of preparticipation cardiovascular screening. However, there are still controversies in the screening and few studies with a large sample size have reported the results of ECGs of marathon runners. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of normal, borderline, and abnormal ECG changes in marathon runners. METHODS The 12-lead ECG data of 13,079 amateur marathon runners between the ages of 18 and 35 years were included for analysis. The prevalence of ECG abnormalities among different gender groups was compared with chi-square tests. RESULTS In terms of training-related changes, sinus bradycardia, sinus arrhythmia, and left ventricular high voltage were found in approximately 15, 5, and 3.28% of the participants, respectively. The incidence of right axis deviation in the marathon runners was 1.78%, which was slightly higher than the incidence of left axis deviation (0.88%). No more than 0.1% of the amateur marathon runners exhibited ST-segment depression, T wave inversion (TWI), premature ventricular contraction, pathologic Q waves, and prolonged QT interval. CONCLUSIONS Training-related ECG changes, including sinus bradycardia, sinus arrhythmia, and left ventricular high voltage, were common in amateur marathon runners. Most abnormal ECG changes, including ST-segment depression, TWI, premature ventricular contraction, pathologic Q waves, and prolonged QT interval, were infrequently found in amateur marathon runners. The data also suggested Chinese amateur marathon runners may have a relatively lower prevalence of ECG abnormalities than black and white runners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Wen
- Department of Sport Science, College of Education, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu-min Huang
- Department of Sport Science, College of Education, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tong-Hui Shen
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, UK
| | - Ying-Lan Gong
- College of Biomedical Engineering & Instrument Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Rui-qing Dong
- Dushu Lake Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Ling Xia
- College of Biomedical Engineering & Instrument Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tian-sheng Xie
- Zhejiang Sino-German Institute of Life science and Healthcare, School of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, China
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19
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Sokunbi OJ, Okoromah CAN, Ekure EN, Olawale OA, Eke WS. Electrocardiographic pattern of apparently healthy African adolescent athletes in Nigeria. BMC Pediatr 2021; 21:97. [PMID: 33632178 PMCID: PMC7905616 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-021-02557-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Strategies to prevent sudden cardiac death (SCD) among young athletes have become topical worldwide and unrecognized cardiac pathology has been identified as a leading cause. Black ethnicity has been reported as an independent predictor of abnormal electrocardiography (ECG) findings among athletes and the frequency and significance of training-related ECG findings versus findings suggestive of an underlying pathology in the young African athletes is crucial. Methods This cross sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence and distribution of ECG patterns in young athletes and controls. A total of 360 participants (180 athletes and 180 controls) were recruited from six secondary schools in Lagos, Nigeria between November 2014 and July 2015. Evaluation included interviewer-administered questionnaires for relevant history, physical examination and resting 12 - lead ECG for each participant. Results Abnormal ECG patterns were found in 48.3% of athletes and 35.6% of controls. Training-related ECG findings occurred in 33.3% of athletes and 18.3% of controls. Athletes and controls had 7.7% prevalence of training un-related ECG patterns respectively. Left ventricular hypertrophy was the most common ECG finding among the athletes and male athletes had a higher prevalence of ECG abnormalities compared to females. Conclusion Adolescent athletes in Nigeria have a high prevalence of training-related ECG patterns and athletes and non-athletes alike have similar proportions of ECG findings suggestive of underlying structural heart disease. Cardiovascular evaluation including ECG should be performed for young athletes prior to competition at any level and should also be considered as part of pre-school entry assessment for all children. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12887-021-02557-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ogochukwu J Sokunbi
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Lagos / Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria.
| | - Christy A N Okoromah
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Lagos / Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Ekanem N Ekure
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Lagos / Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Olajide A Olawale
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Lagos / Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Wuraola S Eke
- Department of Nursing Services, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
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20
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Augustine DX, Keteepe-Arachi T, Malhotra A. Coronavirus Disease 2019: Cardiac Complications and Considerations for Returning to Sports Participation. Eur Cardiol 2021; 16:e03. [PMID: 33708264 PMCID: PMC7941378 DOI: 10.15420/ecr.2020.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. While the majority of symptoms and morbidity relate to the lung, cardiac complications have been well reported and confer increased mortality. Many countries in Europe have passed the peak of the pandemic and adaptations are being made as we progress towards a 'new normal'. As part of this, governments have been planning strategies for the return of elite sports. This article summarises the potential implications of COVID-19 for athletes returning to sport, including common cardiac complications of the disease; consensus recommendations for the return to sport after having COVID-19; and international recommendations for the management of cardiac pathology that may occur as a result of COVID-19. The authors also examine the potential overlap of pathology with physiological change seen in athletes' hearts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel X Augustine
- Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation TrustBath, UK
- Department for Health, University of BathBath, UK
| | | | - Aneil Malhotra
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of ManchesterManchester, UK
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science CentreManchester, UK
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21
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Akkuş A, Belviranli M, Şap F, Okudan N. Assessment of Structure, Function, and Rhythm of the Heart with Echocardiography and Electrocardiography in Adolescent Swimmers. Pediatr Cardiol 2021; 42:182-188. [PMID: 32965565 DOI: 10.1007/s00246-020-02469-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the cardiac parameters by using electrocardiography and echocardiography in adolescent swimmers. Twenty-two adolescent swimmers and 22 gender- and age-matched sedentary controls admitted to our center between November 2018 and May 2019 were included in this study. In addition to demographical characteristics, participants were assessed via a 12-lead electrocardiography and two-dimensional echocardiography for cardiac function. On the echocardiography, end-systolic and end-diastolic interventricular septum, end-systolic and end-diastolic left ventricular posterior wall thicknesses, left atrial width, Tricuspid E, left ventricular mass and left ventricular mass index were higher in the swimmers when compared to the sedentary controls (P < 0.05). On the electrocardiography, Tp-e duration which reflects ventricular transmural repolarization, and Tp-e/QT and Tp-e/corrected QT ratios were higher in the swimmers than the sedentary controls (P < 0.05). In conclusion, swimming exercise in children leads to concentric thickening of left ventricle and induces an increase in Tp-e duration, and Tp-e/QT and Tp-e/corrected QT ratios, which are the novel markers for risk of ventricular arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Akkuş
- Department of Paediatrics, Meram Faculty of Medicine, Necmettin Erbakan University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Muaz Belviranli
- Division of Sports Physiology, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Selçuk University, 42131, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Fatih Şap
- Division of Paediatric Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics, Meram Faculty of Medicine, Necmettin Erbakan University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Nilsel Okudan
- Division of Sports Physiology, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Selçuk University, 42131, Konya, Turkey
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22
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USALP S, KEMAL HS, AKPINAR O, CERİT L, DUYGU H. Diyete protein eklenmesi sporcuların kardiyovasküler sistemini etkiler mi? CUKUROVA MEDICAL JOURNAL 2020. [DOI: 10.17826/cumj.733444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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23
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Anselmi F, Cangiano N, Fusi C, Berti B, Franchini A, Focardi M, Cameli M, Capitani M, Bonifazi M, Mondillo S, D'Ascenzi F. The determinants of positivisation of anterior T-wave inversion in children. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2020; 61:1548-1554. [PMID: 33305549 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.20.11874-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anterior T-wave inversion (aTWI) can be a common electrical sign in cardiomyopathies but also a benign feature regressing with age in healthy children. Unfortunately, little is known about the age of positivisation of aTWI and its determinants in children and longitudinal data are not available. The aim of this longitudinal study was to identify the age and determinants of positivisation of aTWI in healthy children. METHODS ATWI was observed in 331 healthy children. They were evaluated yearly until positivisation for a maximum period of 4 years. Positivisation of aTWI was observed in 312 children (94%). The weight, height/length and their respective percentiles at birth and at the time of positivisation of aTWI and weeks of gestation at birth were collected. RESULTS Positivisation of aTWI occurred at a mean age of 13.0±2.0 years. When aTWI became positive, the majority of children had a height between 51° and 75° or over the 75° percentile. At the multivariate logistic regression analysis height, weight, percentiles of height and weight at the time of positivisation were identified as the strongest independent predictors of the positivisation of aTWI. No correlation was found for prematurity and anthropometrics characteristics at birth. CONCLUSIONS ATWI is a common feature of pediatric ECG, usually regressing with age. Height, weight, percentiles of height and weight at the time of positivisation were identified as determinants of TWI positivisation. These simple anthropometric characteristics should be used in addition to chronological age in order to interpret aTWI in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Anselmi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of Cardiology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Nicola Cangiano
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of Cardiology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Fusi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of Cardiology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Berti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and NeuroScience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Andrea Franchini
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and NeuroScience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Marta Focardi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of Cardiology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Matteo Cameli
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of Cardiology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Massimo Capitani
- Center for Sports Medicine, National Health Service, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Bonifazi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and NeuroScience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Sergio Mondillo
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of Cardiology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Flavio D'Ascenzi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of Cardiology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy -
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24
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Dagradi F, Spazzolini C, Castelletti S, Pedrazzini M, Kotta MC, Crotti L, Schwartz PJ. Exercise Training-Induced Repolarization Abnormalities Masquerading as Congenital Long QT Syndrome. Circulation 2020; 142:2405-2415. [PMID: 33073610 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.120.048916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of long QT syndrome (LQTS) is rather straightforward. We were surprised by realizing that, despite long-standing experience, we were making occasional diagnostic errors by considering as affected subjects who, over time, resulted as not affected. These individuals were all actively practicing sports-an observation that helped in the design of our study. METHODS We focused on subjects referred to our center by sports medicine doctors on suspicion of LQTS because of marked repolarization abnormalities on the ECG performed during the mandatory medical visit necessary in Italy to obtain the certificate of eligibility to practice sports. They all underwent our standard procedures involving both a resting and 12-lead ambulatory ECG, an exercise stress test, and genetic screening. RESULTS There were 310 such consecutive subjects, all actively practicing sports with many hours of intensive weekly training. Of them, 111 had a normal ECG, different cardiac diseases, or were lost to follow-up and exited the study. Of the remaining 199, all with either clear QTc prolongation and/or typical repolarization abnormalities, 121 were diagnosed as affected based on combination of ECG abnormalities with positive genotyping (QTc, 482±35 ms). Genetic testing was negative in 78 subjects, but 45 were nonetheless diagnosed as affected by LQTS based on unequivocal ECG abnormalities (QTc, 472±33 ms). The remaining 33, entirely asymptomatic and with a negative family history, showed an unexpected and practically complete normalization of the ECG abnormalities (their QTc shortened from 492±37 to 423±25 ms [P<0.001]; their Schwartz score went from 3.0 to 0.06) after detraining. They were considered not affected by congenital LQTS and are henceforth referred to as "cases." Furthermore, among them, those who resumed similarly heavy physical training showed reappearance of the repolarization abnormalities. CONCLUSION It is not uncommon to suspect LQTS among individuals actively practicing sports based on marked repolarization abnormalities. Among those who are genotype-negative, >40% normalize their ECG after detraining, but the abnormalities tend to recur with resumption of training. These individuals are not affected by congenital LQTS but could have a form of acquired LQTS. Care should be exercised to avoid diagnostic errors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Dagradi
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias of Genetic Origin (F.D., C.S, S.C., L.C., P.J.S.)
| | - Carla Spazzolini
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias of Genetic Origin (F.D., C.S, S.C., L.C., P.J.S.)
| | - Silvia Castelletti
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias of Genetic Origin (F.D., C.S, S.C., L.C., P.J.S.)
| | - Matteo Pedrazzini
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Laboratory of Cardiovascular Genetics (M.P., M-C.K., L.C., P.J.S.)
| | - Maria-Christina Kotta
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Laboratory of Cardiovascular Genetics (M.P., M-C.K., L.C., P.J.S.)
| | - Lia Crotti
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias of Genetic Origin (F.D., C.S, S.C., L.C., P.J.S.).,Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Laboratory of Cardiovascular Genetics (M.P., M-C.K., L.C., P.J.S.).,Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Department of Cardiovascular, Neural and Metabolic Sciences, San Luca Hospital (L.C.), Milan, Italy.,University of Milano-Bicocca, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Milano, Italy (L.C.)
| | - Peter J Schwartz
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Center for Cardiac Arrhythmias of Genetic Origin (F.D., C.S, S.C., L.C., P.J.S.).,Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Laboratory of Cardiovascular Genetics (M.P., M-C.K., L.C., P.J.S.)
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25
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Abela M, Sharma S. Electrocardiographic interpretation in athletes. Minerva Cardiol Angiol 2020; 69:533-556. [PMID: 33059398 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5683.20.05331-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Participation in regular exercise of moderate intensity is associated with a plethora of systemic benefits, including a reduction in risk factors for coronary atherosclerosis; however, intensive exercise may paradoxically culminate in sudden cardiac arrest among individuals harboring arrhythmogenic substrates. The precise mechanism for arrhythmogenesis is likely multifactorial, however, surges in catecholamines, electrolyte shifts, acid-base disturbances, increased core temperature and demand myocardial ischemia are potential contributors. Although most deaths occur in middle aged and older males with atherosclerotic coronary artery disease, a significant proportion also affect young athletes with inherited or congenital cardiac abnormalities. The impact of such catastrophes on society, particularly when a young high-profile athlete is affected could be considered a justified reason for identifying individuals who may be at risk. Given the rarity of deaths in young athletes, only the simplest screening test, such as the 12-lead electrocardiography (ECG) may be considered to be cost effective. The ECG is effective for detecting serious electrical diseases in young athletes such as congenital electrical accessory pathways and ion channel diseases but can also identify athletes with potential life-threatening structural diseases such as hypertrophic and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy. One of the concerns about ECG screening is that regular intensive exercise results in several physiological alterations in cardiac structure and function that are reflected on the athlete's ECG. Sinus bradycardia, first-degree atrioventricular block, incomplete right bundle branch block, minor J-point elevation and large QRS voltages are common. Conversely, some repolarization anomalies affecting the ST segment, T waves and QT interval may overlap with patterns observed in patients with serious cardiac diseases. The situation is complicated further because age, sex and ethnicity of the athletes also influence the ECG and there is a risk that erroneous interpretation could have serious consequences. This review will describe the normal electrical patterns of the "athlete's heart" and provide insights into differentiation physiological electrical patterns from those observed in serious cardiac disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Abela
- Department of Cardiology, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta - .,Malta Medical School, University of Malta, Msida, Malta - .,St. George's University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, St George's University, London, UK -
| | - Sanjay Sharma
- St. George's University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, St George's University, London, UK
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26
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Diaz-Gonzalez L, Bruña V, Velásquez-Rodriguez J, Valenzuela PL, Valero-Masa MJ, González-Saldívar H, Martinez-Sellés M, Lucia A, Boraita A. Young athletes' ECG: Incomplete right bundle branch block vs crista supraventricularis pattern. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2020; 30:1992-1998. [PMID: 32640481 DOI: 10.1111/sms.13763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Incomplete right bundle branch block (IRBBB) is prevalent among athletes, but its etiology remains to be clearly elucidated and the commonly advocated mechanism, an intraventricular conduction delay, does not explain all cases. In the general population, an apparently similar phenomenon but with different pathophysiology and potential consequences, "crista supraventricularis pattern" (CSP, defined as QRS ≤ 100 ms, S wave <40 ms in I or V6 together with an RSR´ pattern in lead-V1) has been described. Yet, this manifestation has not been studied in athletes. Given that IRBBB can be associated with some serious conditions (including Brugada syndrome, arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, or atrial septal defects) the differentiation between IRBB and CSP could enhance the accuracy of the pre-participation screening (PPS). We thus aimed to determine the prevalence of CSP in young athletes. METHODS Observational study of standard 12-lead resting ECG in a cohort of children (5-16 years) attending a PPS program (August 2018-May 2019). RESULTS 6,401 children (mean ± SD age 11.2 ± 2.9 years, 99.2% Caucasian, 93.8% male, 97.2% soccer players) were studied. We found CSP in 850 participants (prevalence = 13.3% [95% confidence interval 12.5-14.1]) whereas 553 (8.6%) had IRBBB. The proportion of athletes showing an S1S2S3 pattern was higher in those with CSP compared with the other QRS morphologies (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS CSP might have been overlooked in previous reports of sports PPS for children and misdiagnosed as IRBBB, as the proportion of the former condition was higher. Our findings might add useful information to improve the interpretation of the young athletes' ECG and thus the diagnostic value of PPS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vanesa Bruña
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, CIBERCV, Universidad Europea, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - María Jesús Valero-Masa
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, CIBERCV, Universidad Europea, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Hugo González-Saldívar
- Hemodynamics Department of the National Institute of Cardiology, San Jorge Hospital, Asunción, Paraguay
| | - Manuel Martinez-Sellés
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, CIBERCV, Universidad Europea, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alejandro Lucia
- European University (Faculty of Sport Sciences) and Research Institute Hospital 12 de Octubre ('imas12'), Madrid, Spain
| | - Araceli Boraita
- Department of Cardiology, Sports Medicine Center, Spanish Agency for Health Protection in Sports, Madrid, Spain
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27
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Martinez-Sellés M, Diaz-Gonzalez L, Lucia A. Right ventricular remodeling in athletes and crista supraventricularis pattern. Clin Cardiol 2020; 43:657. [PMID: 32445401 PMCID: PMC7368351 DOI: 10.1002/clc.23383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Martinez-Sellés
- Cardiology Department, Hospital Universitario Gregorio Marañón, CIBERCV, Universidad Europea. Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Alejandro Lucia
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, European University and Research Institute Hospital 12 de Octubre ('imas12'), Madrid, Spain
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28
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D'Ascenzi F, Anselmi F, Adami PE, Pelliccia A. Interpretation of T-wave inversion in physiological and pathological conditions: Current state and future perspectives. Clin Cardiol 2020; 43:827-833. [PMID: 32259342 PMCID: PMC7403675 DOI: 10.1002/clc.23365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of T‐wave inversion (TWI) at 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG) in competitive athletes is one of the major diagnostic challenges for sports physicians and consulting cardiologists. Indeed, while the presence of TWI may be associated with some benign conditions and it may be occasionally seen in healthy athletes presenting signs of cardiac remodeling, it may also represent an early sign of an underlying, concealed structural heart disease or life‐threatening arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathies, which may be responsible for exercise‐related sudden cardiac death (SCD). The interpretation of TWI in athletes is complex and the inherent implications for the clinical practice represent a conundrum for physicians. Accordingly, the detection of TWI should be viewed as a potential red flag on the ECG of young and apparently healthy athletes and warrants further investigations because it may represent the initial expression of cardiomyopathies that may not be evident until many years later and that may ultimately be associated with adverse outcomes. The aim of this review is, therefore, to report an update of the literature on TWI in athletes, with a specific focus on the interpretation and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavio D'Ascenzi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of Cardiology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Anselmi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, Division of Cardiology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Paolo Emilio Adami
- Health and Science Department, World Athletics, Monaco, Monaco.,Department of Exercise, Human and Health Sciences, Foro Italico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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29
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Markendorf S, Schmied CM, Brunckhorst CB. [CME ECC 65: The Athlete's ECG]. PRAXIS 2020; 109:253-258. [PMID: 32183650 DOI: 10.1024/1661-8157/a003453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
CME ECC 65: The Athlete's ECG Abstract. Regular, intensive training in athletes causes a modulation of the heart due to higher vagal tone and emerging hypertrophy. To assess these changes, which can be seen in an athlete's ECG as well, an international group of experts constituted contemporary standards for ECG interpretation in athletes, the "Seattle Criteria" which are discussed in this article: Athletes often have a physiologic sinus bradycardia with a heart rate between 30 and 60 bpm and a pronounced respiratory arrhythmia. A junctional rhythm with retrograde depolarisation of the atria frequently occurs as well, especially at rest. Early repolarisation is also an occasional phenomenon in athletes. Depending on its morphology and the history of the athlete it may be regarded as physiologic. This article shall help to evaluate an athlete's ECG in a physician's routine.
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30
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Turkoglu E, Güngör H, Ergene O, Pelliccia A. Preparticipation screening of athletic participant: A proposal for the cardiologist. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF THE CARDIOVASCULAR ACADEMY 2020. [DOI: 10.4103/ijca.ijca_11_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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31
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Porcedda G, Brambilla A, Favilli S, Spaziani G, Mascia G, Giaccardi M. Frequent Ventricular Premature Beats in Children and Adolescents: Natural History and Relationship with Sport Activity in a Long-Term Follow-Up. Pediatr Cardiol 2020; 41:123-128. [PMID: 31712859 DOI: 10.1007/s00246-019-02233-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) are frequently documented in children. To date, few studies report long-term follow-up in pediatric cohorts presenting with frequent PVCs. The aim of this study is to assess the clinical relevance and long-term outcomes of frequent PVCs (≥ 500/24 h) in a large pediatric cohort. From 1996 to 2016, we enrolled all consecutive patients evaluated at Anna Meyer Children Hospital for frequent PVCs. Symptomatic children were excluded together with those patients with known underlying heart diseases; thus, our final cohort of study included 103 patients (male 66%; mean age 11 ± 3.4 years), with a mean follow-up of 9.5 ± 5.5 years. All patients were submitted to complete non-invasive cardiologic evaluation. The mean number of PVCs at Holter Monitoring (HM) was 11,479 ± 13,147/24 h; couplets and/or triplets were observed in 5/103 (4.8%) cases; 3 patients (2.9%) presented runs of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT). High-burden PVCs (> 30,000/24 h) was confirmed in 11/103 (10.6%) patients. During the follow-up, only five patients (4.8%) developed clinical symptoms (3 for palpitations, 1 myocardial dysfunction due to frequent PVCs and NTSV; 1 arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy); no deaths occurred. Basal PVCs were still present in 45/103 (43.7%) patients. Our data suggest that frequent PVCs may be addressed as a benign condition and should not preclude sport participation if not associated with cardiac malformations, heart dysfunction, or cardiomyopathy. This seems to be true also in presence of very frequent/high-burden PVCs. Otherwise, a careful follow-up is mandatory since sport eligibility should be reconsidered in case of onset of symptoms and/or ECG/echocardiographic changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Porcedda
- Pediatric Cardiology Unit, A. Meyer Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50139, Florence, Italy.
| | - Alice Brambilla
- Pediatric Cardiology Unit, A. Meyer Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Silvia Favilli
- Pediatric Cardiology Unit, A. Meyer Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Gaia Spaziani
- Pediatric Cardiology Unit, A. Meyer Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Mascia
- Cardiology and Electrophysiology Unit, S. M. Nuova Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Marzia Giaccardi
- Cardiology and Electrophysiology Unit, S. M. Nuova Hospital, Florence, Italy
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32
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Abela M, Sharma S. Abnormal ECG Findings in Athletes: Clinical Evaluation and Considerations. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE 2019; 21:95. [PMID: 31865466 DOI: 10.1007/s11936-019-0794-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Pre-participation cardiovascular evaluation with electrocardiography is normal practice for most sporting bodies. Awareness about sudden cardiac death in athletes and recognizing how screening can help identify vulnerable athletes have empowered different sporting disciplines to invest in the wellbeing of their athletes. RECENT FINDINGS Discerning physiological electrical alterations due to athletic training from those representing cardiac pathology may be challenging. The mode of investigation of affected athletes is dependent on the electrical anomaly and the disease(s) in question. This review will highlight specific pathological ECG patterns that warrant assessment and surveillance, together with an in-depth review of the recommended algorithm for evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Abela
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St. George's, University of London, St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
- University of Malta, Msida, Malta.
| | - Sanjay Sharma
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St. George's, University of London, St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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33
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Sharma S, Drezner JA, Baggish A, Papadakis M, Wilson MG, Prutkin JM, La Gerche A, Ackerman MJ, Borjesson M, Salerno JC, Asif IM, Owens DS, Chung EH, Emery MS, Froelicher VF, Heidbuchel H, Adamuz C, Asplund CA, Cohen G, Harmon KG, Marek JC, Molossi S, Niebauer J, Pelto HF, Perez MV, Riding NR, Saarel T, Schmied CM, Shipon DM, Stein R, Vetter VL, Pelliccia A, Corrado D. International recommendations for electrocardiographic interpretation in athletes. Eur Heart J 2019; 39:1466-1480. [PMID: 28329355 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehw631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is the leading cause of mortality in athletes during sport. A variety of mostly hereditary, structural, or electrical cardiac disorders are associated with SCD in young athletes, the majority of which can be identified or suggested by abnormalities on a resting 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG). Whether used for diagnostic or screening purposes, physicians responsible for the cardiovascular care of athletes should be knowledgeable and competent in ECG interpretation in athletes. However, in most countries a shortage of physician expertise limits wider application of the ECG in the care of the athlete. A critical need exists for physician education in modern ECG interpretation that distinguishes normal physiological adaptations in athletes from distinctly abnormal findings suggestive of underlying pathology. Since the original 2010 European Society of Cardiology recommendations for ECG interpretation in athletes, ECG standards have evolved quickly over the last decade; pushed by a growing body of scientific data that both tests proposed criteria sets and establishes new evidence to guide refinements. On 26-27 February 2015, an international group of experts in sports cardiology, inherited cardiac disease, and sports medicine convened in Seattle, Washington, to update contemporary standards for ECG interpretation in athletes. The objective of the meeting was to define and revise ECG interpretation standards based on new and emerging research and to develop a clear guide to the proper evaluation of ECG abnormalities in athletes. This statement represents an international consensus for ECG interpretation in athletes and provides expert opinion-based recommendations linking specific ECG abnormalities and the secondary evaluation for conditions associated with SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjay Sharma
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's, University of London, UK
| | - Jonathan A Drezner
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Aaron Baggish
- Division of Cardiology, Massachusettes General Hospital, MA, USA
| | - Michael Papadakis
- Cardiology Clinical Academic Group, St George's, University of London, UK
| | - Mathew G Wilson
- Department of Sports Medicine, ASPETAR, Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Qatar
| | - Jordan M Prutkin
- Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Andre La Gerche
- Department of Cardiology, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael J Ackerman
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, and Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, MN, USA
| | - Mats Borjesson
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital/Ostra Sahlgrenska Academy, Goteborg, Sweden
| | - Jack C Salerno
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Irfan M Asif
- Department of Family Medicine, University of South Carolina, Greenville, SC, USA
| | - David S Owens
- Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Eugene H Chung
- Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, NC, USA
| | - Michael S Emery
- Center of Cardiovascular Care in Athletics, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN, USA
| | | | - Hein Heidbuchel
- Department of Cardiology, Arrhythmology Hasselt University, Hasselt, Belgium.,Department of Cardiology, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Carmen Adamuz
- Department of Sports Medicine, ASPETAR, Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Qatar
| | | | - Gordon Cohen
- Division of Pediatric Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, CA, USA
| | - Kimberly G Harmon
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Silvana Molossi
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, TX, USA
| | - Josef Niebauer
- University Institute of Sports Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University, Austria
| | - Hank F Pelto
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Marco V Perez
- Center for Inherited Cardiovascular Disease, Stanford University, CA, USA
| | - Nathan R Riding
- Department of Sports Medicine, ASPETAR, Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Qatar
| | - Tess Saarel
- Pediatric Cardiology, Cleveland Clinic, OH, USA
| | | | - David M Shipon
- Heart Center of Philadelphia, Jefferson University Hospitals, PA, USA
| | - Ricardo Stein
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital de Clinicas de Porte Allegre, Brazil
| | | | | | - Domenico Corrado
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padua Medical School, Italy
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34
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Echocardiographic assessment of children participating in regular sports training. North Clin Istanb 2019; 6:236-241. [PMID: 31650109 PMCID: PMC6790927 DOI: 10.14744/nci.2018.40360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of a well-controlled endurance training program on cardiac functions and structures in healthy children and to define whether training hours per week and type of sports affect the training-induced cardiovascular response. METHODS: Echocardiographic recordings were obtained in 126 children who systematically participated in sports training for at least 1 year (study group), and the results were compared with the values obtained in 62 normal children who did not actively engage in any sports activity (control group). The two groups were comparable for age, sex, and body mass index. Study group participants were divided into two groups according to the duration of physical activity (training hours per week, <8 h and >8 h) and five groups according to the cardiovascular demand of sports type. Clinical examination, resting electrocardiogram, two-dimensional, M-mode, and Doppler echocardiography were obtained in all participants. RESULTS: Left ventricle wall dimensions, left atrial diameters, and aortic measurements were significantly higher in the study group. The mean mitral E/A ratio was also significantly higher in the training group than in untrained subjects (p<0.001). Echocardiographic measurements were similar between different sports type participants in the study group. However, aortic root diameter, left atrial diameter, and left ventricle posterior wall diastolic thickness were higher in children training >8 h/week than in children training <8 h/week in the study group. CONCLUSION: The present study showed that the echocardiographic parameters of children participating in regular sports training activities statistically significantly exceeded the parameters of untrained controls. These parameters were mostly dependent on the duration of training hours per week.
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Waase MP, Mutharasan RK, Whang W, DiTullio MR, DiFiori JP, Callahan L, Mancell J, Phelan D, Schwartz A, Homma S, Engel DJ. Electrocardiographic Findings in National Basketball Association Athletes. JAMA Cardiol 2019; 3:69-74. [PMID: 29214319 DOI: 10.1001/jamacardio.2017.4572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Importance While it is known that long-term intensive athletic training is associated with cardiac structural changes that can be reflected on surface electrocardiograms (ECGs), there is a paucity of sport-specific ECG data. This study seeks to clarify the applicability of existing athlete ECG interpretation criteria to elite basketball players, an athlete group shown to develop significant athletic cardiac remodeling. Objective To generate normative ECG data for National Basketball Association (NBA) athletes and to assess the accuracy of athlete ECG interpretation criteria in this population. Design, Setting, and Participants The NBA has partnered with Columbia University Medical Center to annually perform a review of policy-mandated annual preseason ECGs and stress echocardiograms for all players and predraft participants. This observational study includes the preseason ECG examinations of NBA athletes who participated in the 2013-2014 and 2014-2015 seasons, plus all participants in the 2014 and 2015 NBA predraft combines. Examinations were performed from July 2013 to May 2015. Data analysis was performed between December 2015 and March 2017. Exposures Active roster or draft status in the NBA and routine preseason ECGs and echocardiograms. Main Outcomes and Measures Baseline quantitative ECG variables were measured and ECG data qualitatively analyzed using 3 existing, athlete-specific interpretation criteria: Seattle (2012), refined (2014), and international (2017). Abnormal ECG findings were compared with matched echocardiographic data. Results Of 519 male athletes, 409 (78.8%) were African American, 96 (18.5%) were white, and the remaining 14 (2.7%) were of other races/ethnicities; 115 were predraft combine participants, and the remaining 404 were on active rosters of NBA teams. The mean (SD) age was 24.8 (4.3) years. Physiologic, training-related changes were present in 462 (89.0%) athletes in the study. Under Seattle criteria, 131 (25.2%) had abnormal findings, compared with 108 (20.8%) and 81 (15.6%) under refined and international criteria, respectively. Increased age and increased left ventricular relative wall thickness (RWT) on echocardiogram were highly associated with abnormal ECG classifications; 17 of 186 athletes (9.1%) in the youngest age group (age 18-22 years) had abnormal ECGs compared with 36 of the 159 athletes (22.6%) in the oldest age group (age 27-39 years) (odds ratio, 2.9; 95% CI, 1.6-5.4; P < .001). Abnormal T-wave inversions (TWI) were present in 32 athletes (6.2%), and this was associated with smaller left ventricular cavity size and increased RWT. One of the 172 athletes (0.6%) in the lowest RWT group (range, 0.24-0.35) had TWIs compared with 24 of the 163 athletes (14.7%) in the highest RWT group (range, 0.41-0.57) (odds ratio, 29.5; 95% CI, 3.9-221.0; P < .001). Conclusions and Relevance Despite the improved specificity of the international recommendations over previous athlete-specific ECG criteria, abnormal ECG classification rates remain high in NBA athletes. The development of left ventricular concentric remodeling appears to have a significant influence on the prevalence of abnormal ECG classification and repolarization abnormalities in this athlete group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc P Waase
- Division of Cardiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - R Kannan Mutharasan
- Division of Cardiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - William Whang
- Division of Cardiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Marco R DiTullio
- Division of Cardiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - John P DiFiori
- National Basketball Association, New York, New York.,Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles.,Department of Orthopedics, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Lisa Callahan
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York
| | - Jimmie Mancell
- Department of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis
| | - Dermot Phelan
- Sydell and Arnold Miller Family Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio.,The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Allan Schwartz
- Division of Cardiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Shunichi Homma
- Division of Cardiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - David J Engel
- Division of Cardiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
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Walsh B, Macfarlane PW, Prutkin JM, Smith SW. Distinctive ECG patterns in healthy black adults. J Electrocardiol 2019; 56:15-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2019.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Abstract
It is established that an intensive training results in a lower average resting heart rate. Management of bradycardia in an athlete can be difficult given the underlying mechanisms are not clearly understood. The authors reviewed the different mechanisms described in the literature, including recent advances in physiology regarding remodeling of ion channels, which may partially explain bradycardia in athletes. Sinus bradycardia amongst athletes, especially endurance focused athletes, is common but difficult to apprehend. The underlying mechanisms are observably of multifactorial origin and likely incompletely elucidated by the current body of knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benoit Doyen
- Department of Cardiology, CHU UCL Namur , Yvoir , Belgium
| | - David Matelot
- Department of Cardiology, Hopital Pontchaillou , Rennes , France
| | - François Carré
- Department of Cardiology, Hopital Pontchaillou Service de medecine du sport , Rennes , France
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D’Ascenzi F, Anselmi F, Graziano F, Berti B, Franchini A, Bacci E, Ceccon C, Capitani M, Bonifazi M, Mondillo S. Normal and abnormal QT interval duration and its changes in preadolescents and adolescents practicing sport. Europace 2019; 21:1566-1574. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/euz198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Aims
Twelve-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is an established tool in the evaluation of athletes, providing information about life-threatening cardiovascular diseases, such as long QT syndrome. However, the interpretation of ECG is sometimes challenging in children, particularly for the repolarization phase. The aim of this prospective, longitudinal study was to determinate the distribution of QT interval in children practicing sport and to evaluate changes in QT duration overtime.
Methods and results
A population of 1473 preadolescents practising sport (12.0 ± 1.8 years, 7–15 years) was analysed. Each athlete was evaluated at baseline, mid-term, and end of the study (mean follow-up: 3 ± 1 years). QT interval was corrected with Bazett (B) and Fridericia (F) formulae. At baseline QT interval corrected with the Bazett formula (QTcB) was 412 ± 25 ms and QT interval corrected with the Fridericia formula (QTcF) 387 ± 21 ms, with no changes during follow-up. Ten children (0.68%) had an abnormal QTc. In those with QTcB and QTcF ≥480 ms, QTc duration persisted abnormal during the follow-up and they were disqualified. Conversely, children with 460 ms < (QTcB) <480 ms had a normal QTc interval at the end of the study. These children had also a normal QTcF. Mean difference in the calculation of QT between the two formulae was 25 ± 11 ms (P < 0.0001). For resting heart rate (HR) ≥82 b.p.m., QTcF was independent from HR contrary to QTcB.
Conclusion
Normal QTc interval does not change over time in preadolescents. A minority of them has a QTc ≥480 ms; in these subjects, QTc interval remains prolonged. The use of Bazett and Fridericia correction formulae is not interchangeable and the Fridericia correction should be preferred in preadolescents with a resting HR ≥82 b.p.m.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavio D’Ascenzi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Viale M. Bracci, 16, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Anselmi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Viale M. Bracci, 16, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Graziano
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Viale M. Bracci, 16, Siena, Italy
| | - Beatrice Berti
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and NeuroScience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Andrea Franchini
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and NeuroScience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Elodi Bacci
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Viale M. Bracci, 16, Siena, Italy
| | - Chiara Ceccon
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Viale M. Bracci, 16, Siena, Italy
| | - Massimo Capitani
- Centre for Sports Medicine, National Health Service, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Bonifazi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery, and NeuroScience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Sergio Mondillo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Viale M. Bracci, 16, Siena, Italy
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Malhotra A, Dhutia H, Yeo TJ, Finocchiaro G, Gati S, Bulleros P, Fanton Z, Papatheodorou E, Miles C, Keteepe-Arachi T, Basu J, Parry-Williams G, Prakash K, Gray B, D'Silva A, Ensam B, Behr E, Tome M, Papadakis M, Sharma S. Accuracy of the 2017 international recommendations for clinicians who interpret adolescent athletes’ ECGs: a cohort study of 11 168 British white and black soccer players. Br J Sports Med 2019; 54:739-745. [DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2017-098528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
AimTo investigate the accuracy of the recently published international recommendations for ECG interpretation in young athletes in a large cohort of white and black adolescent soccer players.Methods11 168 soccer players (mean age 16.4±1.2 years) were evaluated with a health questionnaire, ECG and echocardiogram; 10 581 (95%) of the players were male and 10 163 (91%) were white. ECGs were retrospectively analysed according to (1) the 2010 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) recommendations, (2) Seattle criteria, (3) refined criteria and (4) the international recommendations for ECG interpretation in young athletes.ResultsThe ESC recommendations resulted in a higher number of abnormal ECGs compared with the Seattle, refined and international criteria (13.2%, 4.3%, 2.9% and 1.8%, respectively). All four criteria were associated with a higher prevalence of abnormal ECGs in black athletes compared with white athletes (ESC: 16.2% vs 12.9%; Seattle: 5.9% vs 4.2%; refined: 3.8% vs 2.8%; international 3.6% vs 1.6%; p<0.001 each). Compared with ESC recommendations, the Seattle, refined and international criteria identified a lower number of abnormal ECGs—by 67%, 78% and 86%, respectively. All four criteria identified 36 (86%) of 42 athletes with serious cardiac pathology. Compared with ESC recommendations, the Seattle criteria improved specificity from 87% to 96% in white athletes and 84% to 94% in black athletes. The international recommendations demonstrated the highest specificity for white (99%) and black (97%) athletes and a sensitivity of 86%.ConclusionsThe 2017 international recommendations for ECG interpretation in young athletes can be applied to adolescent athletes to detect serious cardiac disease. These recommendations perform more effectively than previous ECG criteria in both white and black adolescent soccer players.
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Noben L, Clur SA, van Laar JO, Vullings R. Prenatal diagnosis of a bundle branch block based on the fetal ECG. BMJ Case Rep 2019; 12:12/7/e229998. [PMID: 31266761 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2019-229998] [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: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
A non-invasive fetal ECG was performed on a 36-year-old pregnant woman at 24+6 weeks of gestation as part of ongoing clinical research. A paediatric cardiologist suspected an incomplete bundle branch block based on the averaged ECGs from the recording. The characteristic terminal R' wave was present in multiple leads of the fetal ECGs. A fetal anomaly scan had been performed at 20 weeks of gestation and showed no abnormalities. An incomplete right bundle branch block was confirmed on an ECG recorded at the age of 2 years. This case shows the possibility of novel non-invasive fetal ECG technology as an adjunct to the diagnosis of fetal cardiac anomalies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lore Noben
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Máxima Medical Centre, Veldhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Sally-Ann Clur
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Emma Children's Hospital AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Judith Oeh van Laar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Máxima Medical Centre, Veldhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Rik Vullings
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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Skalenius M, Mattsson CM, Dahlberg P, Bergfeldt L, Ravn-Fischer A. Performance and cardiac evaluation before and after a 3-week training camp for 400-meter sprinters - An observational, non-randomized study. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0217856. [PMID: 31150507 PMCID: PMC6544373 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To study the performance and cardiovascular function after a 3-week training camp in athletes competing in an anaerobically dominant sport. Methods Twenty-three competitive 400-m athletes were enrolled in this non-randomized study, 17 took part in a 3-week training camp in South-Africa (intervention), but one declined follow-up assessment, while 6 pursued in-door winter training in Sweden and served as controls. Electrocardiography, transthoracic echocardiography, blood test analyses, maximal exercise tolerance test, and a 300-m sprint test with lactate measurements ([La]peak) were performed before and after the training camp period. Results At baseline, there were no clinically significant pathological findings in any measurements. The training period resulted in improved 300m-sprint performance [n = 16; running time 36.71 (1.39) vs. 35.98 (1.13) s; p<0.01] and higher peak lactate values. Despite 48% more training sessions than performed on home ground (n = 6), myocardial biomarkers decreased significantly (NT-pro BNP -38%; p<0.05, troponin T -16%; p<0.05). Furthermore, resting heart rate (-7%; p<0.01) and left ventricular systolic and diastolic volumes decreased -6% (p<0.01) and -10% (p<0.05), respectively. Conclusions Intense physical activity at training camp improved the performance level, likely due to improved anaerobic capacity indicated by higher [La]peak. There were no clinically significant adverse cardiac changes after this period of predominantly anaerobic training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Skalenius
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Cardiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - C. Mikael Mattsson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Silicon Valley Exercise Analytics (SVExA), Menlo Park, CA, United States of America
| | - Pia Dahlberg
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Cardiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Lennart Bergfeldt
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Cardiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Annica Ravn-Fischer
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Cardiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Verrall G, Hains A, Ayres B, Hillock R. Influence of type and duration of training on the presence of an abnormal ECG in high-performance athletes. HEART ASIA 2019; 11:e011120. [PMID: 31031829 DOI: 10.1136/heartasia-2018-011120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Objective To undertake an ECG in high level athletes to determine the morphology of the ECG and to assess the influences on the ECG of the amount of time in a high-performance programme and the type of sport played. Design Cross-sectional cohort study. Setting High-performance sports programme. Interventions Current symptoms (questionnaire) and length of time in a high-performance sports programme were recorded. Sports were classified as either high maximal oxygen uptake continuous, high maximal oxygen uptake repeated effort or static. An ECG was performed and classified by 2010 European Society of Cardiology guidelines into Groups 0 (normal), Group 1 (common and training-related ECG changes) and Group 2 (uncommon and training unrelated ECG changes). Results The following were recorded: length of time in high performance sport programme (mean 2.3 years), type of sport (Continuous 103, Repeated effort 133, Static 37), ECG changes Group 0 (n=83, 31%), Group 1 (n=173, 63%) and Group 2 (n=17, 6.2%). Athletes with an increased length of time in a high performance programme demonstrated a higher likelihood of Group 2 ECG changes when compared with Groups 0 and 1 (p=0.05). The questionnaire did not help detect athletes with Group 2 ECG changes. Conclusions This study demonstrates that an increased length of time in a high performance programme was associated with an increased number of detectable Group 2 ECG changes. Overall, the further investigation rate was 6.2%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Verrall
- Department of Sports Medicine, South Australian Sports Institute, Brooklyn Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Angus Hains
- Department of Sports Medicine, SA Heart, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Bronte Ayres
- Department of Sports Medicine, SA Heart, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Richard Hillock
- Department of Sports Medicine, SA Heart, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Chao WH, Su FY, Lin F, Yu YS, Lin GM. Association of electrocardiographic left and right ventricular hypertrophy with physical fitness of military males: The CHIEF study. Eur J Sport Sci 2019; 19:1214-1220. [PMID: 30955480 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2019.1595741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the association of electrocardiographic (ECG) left and/or right ventricular hypertrophy (LVH and RVH) with physical fitness of military males. METHODS We used a military cohort of 2587 males, who were on average 29.1 years of age, from the cardiorespiratory fitness and hospitalization events in armed forces (CHIEF) study in Taiwan for the analysis. Isolated ECG-LVH (n = 779) was diagnosed by either the Sokolow-Lyon or Cornell voltage criteria. Isolated ECG-RVH (n = 234) was defined by either the Sokolow-Lyon or Myers et al. voltage criteria. Combined ECG-LVH/RVH (n = 140) was defined as those who met the voltage criteria for both LVH and RVH. The other ECGs were defined as unaffected (n = 1434). Physical fitness was evaluated by the upper and lower 16% exercise performance (beyond 1-standard deviation) in 3000-meter run, 2-minute sit-ups, and 2-minute push-ups. All procedures were standardized and monitored by unified computerized scoring systems. A multiple logistic regression was used to determine the relationship. RESULTS Compared with unaffected participants, those with an isolated ECG-LVH were tended to have a better 3000-meter run performance (odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals: 1.22 [0.99-1.50], p-value = 0.064) after adjusting for age, service specialty, body mass index, mean blood pressure, smoking status, alcohol intake, hemoglobin level, and exercise frequency. By contrast, those with an isolated ECG-RVH were tended to have a worse 2-minute sit-up performance (OR: 1.46 [0.99-2.16], p-value = 0.054). CONCLUSION Military males with ECG-LVH and/or ECG-RVH compared to unaffected participants may have diverse exercise performances. However, these observations narrowly failed to reach statistical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Hsiung Chao
- Department of Applied Mathematics, National Dong Hwa University , Hualien , Taiwan
| | - Fang-Ying Su
- Biotechnology R&D Center, National Taiwan University Hospital Hsinchu Branch , Hsinchu , Taiwan
| | - Felicia Lin
- Department of Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital , Hualien , Taiwan
| | - Yun-Shun Yu
- Department of Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital , Hualien , Taiwan
| | - Gen-Min Lin
- Department of Medicine, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital , Hualien , Taiwan.,Departments of Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center , Taipei , Taiwan.,College of Science and Engineering, National Dong Hwa University , Hualien , Taiwan
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D'Ascenzi F, Anselmi F, Berti B, Capitani E, Chiti C, Franchini A, Graziano F, Nistri S, Focardi M, Capitani M, Corrado D, Bonifazi M, Mondillo S. Prevalence and significance of T-wave inversion in children practicing sport: A prospective, 4-year follow-up study. Int J Cardiol 2019; 279:100-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2018.09.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Calò L, Martino A, Tranchita E, Sperandii F, Guerra E, Quaranta F, Parisi A, Nigro A, Sciarra L, Ruvo ED, Casasco M, Pigozzi F. Electrocardiographic and echocardiographic evaluation of a large cohort of peri-pubertal soccer players during pre-participation screening. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2019; 26:1444-1455. [PMID: 30696262 DOI: 10.1177/2047487319826312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The early diagnosis of cardiac abnormalities in young athletes may be helpful not only to identify subjects potentially at risk of sudden cardiac death but also to prevent stress-related cardiac dysfunction and cardiovascular events during the life of these subjects. The aim of our study was to investigate the prevalence of cardiac abnormalities in a population of young male soccer players undergoing pre-participation screening through electrocardiogram and trans-thoracic echocardiography. METHODS All consecutive male football players undergoing pre-participation screening comprehensive of medical history, physical examination, 12-lead electrocardiogram and trans-thoracic echocardiography at the FMSI Sport Medicine Institute in Rome between January 2008-March 2009 were enrolled in the study. RESULTS Overall, 2261 consecutive young athletes aged 12.4 ± 2.6 years were evaluated. Training-unrelated electrocardiogram abnormalities were observed in 65 (2.9%) athletes. Abnormal trans-thoracic echocardiography was observed in 102 athletes (4.5%), including two cases of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, eight of mild left ventricular hypertrophy, six of mild left ventricular dilation and 17 of bicuspid aortic valve. An abnormal electrocardiogram was associated with anomalous trans-thoracic echocardiography in 11/65 (16.9%) cases. All athletes requiring sport disqualification were identified by electrocardiogram. Notably, among 2216 athletes with a normal electrocardiogram, 91 had abnormal trans-thoracic echocardiography, including six cases of left ventricular dilation and six of ventricular hypertrophy. CONCLUSIONS In a wide population of peri-pubertal male athletes, evaluation of the electrocardiogram identified all cardiac diseases requiring sport disqualification. Trans-thoracic echocardiography alone allowed the identification of cardiac abnormalities potentially leading to cardiomyopathies or major cardiovascular events over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Calò
- 1 Division of Cardiology, Policlinico Casilino, Italy
- 2 Department of Health Sciences, University of Rome 'Foro Italico', Italy
- 3 Italian Federation of Sport Medicine (FMSI) Institute, Villa Stuart Sport Clinic-FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Italy
| | | | - Eliana Tranchita
- 2 Department of Health Sciences, University of Rome 'Foro Italico', Italy
| | - Fabio Sperandii
- 4 Operating Unit of Sport Medicine and Physical Activity Promotion, AUSL Piacenza, Italy
| | - Emanuele Guerra
- 5 Operating Unit of Sport Medicine, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Quaranta
- 2 Department of Health Sciences, University of Rome 'Foro Italico', Italy
| | - Attilio Parisi
- 2 Department of Health Sciences, University of Rome 'Foro Italico', Italy
| | - Antonia Nigro
- 3 Italian Federation of Sport Medicine (FMSI) Institute, Villa Stuart Sport Clinic-FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Italy
| | - Luigi Sciarra
- 1 Division of Cardiology, Policlinico Casilino, Italy
| | | | | | - Fabio Pigozzi
- 1 Division of Cardiology, Policlinico Casilino, Italy
- 2 Department of Health Sciences, University of Rome 'Foro Italico', Italy
- 3 Italian Federation of Sport Medicine (FMSI) Institute, Villa Stuart Sport Clinic-FIFA Medical Centre of Excellence, Italy
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Kay JC, Claghorn GC, Thompson Z, Hampton TG, Garland T. Electrocardiograms of mice selectively bred for high levels of voluntary exercise: Effects of short-term exercise training and the mini-muscle phenotype. Physiol Behav 2018; 199:322-332. [PMID: 30508549 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2018.11.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Changes in cardiac function that occur with exercise training have been studied in detail, but those accompanying evolved increases in the duration or intensity of physical activity are poorly understood. To address this gap, we studied electrocardiograms (ECGs) of mice from an artificial selection experiment in which four replicate lines are bred for high voluntary wheel running (HR) while four non-selected lines are maintained as controls (C). ECGs were recorded using an ECGenie (Mouse Specifics, Inc.) both before and after six days of wheel access (as used in the standard protocol to select breeders). We hypothesized that HR mice would show innate differences in ECG characteristics and that the response to training would be greater in HR mice relative to C mice because the former run more. After wheel access, in statistical analyses controlling for variation in body mass, all mice had lower heart rates, and mice from HR lines had longer PR intervals than C lines. Also after wheel access, male mice had increased heart rate variability, whereas females had decreased heart rate variability. With body mass as a covariate, six days of wheel access significantly increased ventricle mass in both HR and C males. Within the HR lines, a subset of mice known as mini-muscle individuals have a 50% reduction in hindlimb muscle mass and generally larger internal organs, including the heart ventricles. As compared with normal-muscled individuals, mini-muscle individuals had a longer QRS complex, both before and after wheel access. Some studies in other species of mammals have shown correlations between athletic performance and QRS duration. Correlations between wheel running and either heart rate or QRS duration (before wheel running) among the eight individual lines of the HR selection experiment or among 17 inbred mouse strains taken from the literature were not statistically significant. However, total revolutions and average speed were negatively correlated with PR duration among lines of the HR selection experiment for males, and duration of running was negatively correlated with PR duration among 17 inbred strains for females. We conclude that HR mice have enhanced trainability of cardiac function as compared with C mice (as indicated by their longer PR duration after wheel access), and that the mini-muscle phenotype causes cardiac changes that have been associated with increased athletic performance in previous studies of mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarren C Kay
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35406, USA
| | - Gerald C Claghorn
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Zoe Thompson
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA; Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, Medical School, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | | | - Theodore Garland
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
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47
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Abstract
Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is the leading cause of death in athletes. A large proportion of these deaths are associated with undiagnosed cardiovascular disease. Screening for high-risk individuals enables early detection of pathology, as well as permitting lifestyle modification or therapeutic intervention.ECG changes in athletes occur as a result of electrical and structural adaptations secondary to repeated bouts of exercise. Such changes are common and may overlap with patterns suggestive of underlying cardiovascular disease. Correct interpretation is therefore essential, in order to differentiate physiology from pathology. Erroneous interpretation may result in false reassurance or expensive investigations for further evaluation and unnecessary disqualification from competitive sports.Interpretation of the athlete's ECG has evolved over the past 12 years, beginning with the 2005 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) consensus, progressing to the ESC recommendations (2010), Seattle Criteria (2013) and the 'refined' criteria (2014). This evolution culminated in the recently published international recommendations for ECG interpretation in athletes (2017), which has led to a significant reduction in false positives and screening-associated costs. This review aims to describe the evolution of the current knowledge on ECG interpretation as well as future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyee Basu
- Cardiology Clinical and Academic Group, St George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.
| | - Aneil Malhotra
- Cardiology Clinical and Academic Group, St George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
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48
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McClean G, Riding NR, Pieles G, Sharma S, Watt V, Adamuz C, Johnson A, Tramullas A, George KP, Oxborough D, Wilson MG. Prevalence and significance of T-wave inversion in Arab and Black paediatric athletes: Should anterior T-wave inversion interpretation be governed by biological or chronological age? Eur J Prev Cardiol 2018; 26:641-652. [PMID: 30426769 DOI: 10.1177/2047487318811956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND International electrocardiographic (ECG) recommendations regard anterior T-wave inversion (ATWI) in athletes under 16 years to be normal. DESIGN The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence, distribution and determinants of TWI by ethnicity, chronological and biological age within paediatric athletes. A second aim was to establish the diagnostic accuracy of international ECG recommendations against refinement within athletes who present with ECG variants isolated to ATWI (V1-V4) using receiver operator curve analysis. Clinical context was calculated using Bayesian analysis. METHODS Four hundred and eighteen Arab and 314 black male athletes (11-18 years) were evaluated by ECG, echocardiogram and biological age (by radiological X-ray) assessment. RESULTS A total of 116 (15.8%) athletes presented with ATWI (V1-V4), of which 96 (82.8%) were observed in the absence of other ECG findings considered to be abnormal as per international recommendations for ECG interpretation in athletes; 91 (12.4%) athletes presented with ATWI confined to V1-V3, with prevalence predicted by black ethnicity (odds ratio (OR) 2.2, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3-3.5) and biological age under 16 years (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.2-3.3). Of the 96 with ATWI (V1-V4) observed in the absence of other ECG findings considered to be abnormal, as per international recommendations for ECG interpretation in athletes, diagnostic accuracy was 'fail' (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.00-1.00) for international recommendations and 'excellent' (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.92-1.00) when governed by biological age under 16 years, providing a positive and negative likelihood ratio of 15.8 (95% CI 1.8-28.1) and 0.0 (95% CI 0.0-0.8), respectively. CONCLUSION Interpretation of ECG variants isolated with ATWI (V1-V4) using international recommendations (chronological age <16 years) warrants caution, but governance by biological age yielded an 'excellent' diagnostic accuracy. In the clinical context, the 'chance' of detecting cardiac pathology within a paediatric male athlete presenting with ATWI in the absence of other ECG findings considered to be abnormal, as per international recommendations for ECG interpretation in athletes (positive likelihood ratio 15.8), was 14.4%, whereas a negative ECG (negative likelihood ratio 0.0) was 0%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin McClean
- 1 Athlete Health and Performance Research Centre, Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Qatar.,2 Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Science, Liverpool John Moores University, UK
| | - Nathan R Riding
- 1 Athlete Health and Performance Research Centre, Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Qatar
| | - Guido Pieles
- 3 National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Centre, Bristol Royal Hospital for Children and Bristol Heart Institute, UK
| | - Sanjay Sharma
- 4 Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, St Georges University of London, UK
| | - Victoria Watt
- 5 Department of Sports Medicine, Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Qatar
| | - Carmen Adamuz
- 5 Department of Sports Medicine, Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Qatar
| | - Amanda Johnson
- 6 Aspire Academy Sports Medicine Centre, Aspire Academy, Qatar
| | | | - Keith P George
- 2 Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Science, Liverpool John Moores University, UK
| | - David Oxborough
- 2 Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Science, Liverpool John Moores University, UK
| | - Mathew G Wilson
- 1 Athlete Health and Performance Research Centre, Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Qatar.,2 Research Institute for Sport and Exercise Science, Liverpool John Moores University, UK
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49
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Thomas JA, A Perez-Alday E, Junell A, Newton K, Hamilton C, Li-Pershing Y, German D, Bender A, Tereshchenko LG. Vectorcardiogram in athletes: The Sun Valley Ski Study. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2018; 24:e12614. [PMID: 30403442 DOI: 10.1111/anec.12614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global electrical heterogeneity (GEH) is associated with sudden cardiac death (SCD) in adults of 45 years and above. However, GEH has not been previously measured in young athletes. The goal of this study was to establish a reference for vectorcardiograpic (VCG) metrics in male and female athletes. METHODS Skiers (n = 140; mean age 19.2 ± 3.5 years; 66% male, 94% white; 53% professional athletes) were enrolled in a prospective cohort. Resting 12-lead ECGs were interpreted per the International ECG criteria. Associations of age, sex, and athletic performance with GEH were studied. RESULTS In age and training level-adjusted analyses, male sex was associated with a larger T vector [T peak magnitude +186 (95% CI 106-266) µV] and a wider spatial QRS-T angle [+28.2 (17.3-39.2)°] as compared to women. Spatial QRS-T angle in the ECG left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) voltage group (n = 21; 15%) and normal ECG group did not differ (67.7 ± 25.0 vs. 66.8 ± 28.2; p = 0.914), suggesting that ECG LVH voltage in athletes reflects physiological remodeling. In contrast, skiers with right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH) voltage (n = 26, 18.6%) had wider QRS-T angle (92.7 ± 29.6 vs. 66.8 ± 28.2°; p = 0.001), larger SAI QRST (194.9 ± 30.2 vs. 157.8 ± 42.6 mV × ms; p < 0.0001), but similar peak SVG vector magnitude (1976 ± 548 vs. 1939 ± 395 µV; p = 0.775) as compared to the normal ECG group. Better athletic performance was associated with the narrower QRS-T angle. Each 10% worsening in an athlete's Federation Internationale de' Ski downhill ranking percentile was associated with an increase in spatial QRS-T angle by 2.1 (95% CI 0.3-3.9) degrees (p = 0.013). CONCLUSION Vectorcardiograpic adds nuances to ECG phenomena in athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason A Thomas
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon.,Department of Biomedical Informatics and Medical Education, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Erick A Perez-Alday
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Allison Junell
- School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Kelley Newton
- School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Christopher Hamilton
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Yin Li-Pershing
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - David German
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Aron Bender
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Larisa G Tereshchenko
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon.,Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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50
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Abstract
The cardiovascular benefits of regular exercise are well established. A mortality benefit has clearly been demonstrated for those that participate in light and moderate exercise. Less is known regarding the long-term effects of vigorous regular running over an extended period. In recent years, myocardial fibrosis, arrhythmias, and coronary artery calcium have been demonstrated in high-intensity exercisers. However, the prognostic implication of these findings remains unknown, and thus, there is insufficient evidence, and potentially not a need, to recommend a maximal running dose or limit for healthy individuals who already train intensively. For those otherwise healthy individuals who wish to run for cardiovascular health benefits, following the standard guidelines of 150 min of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 min of vigorous exercise weekly is recommended. Prevention and screening remain as key to lowering morbidity and mortality in all individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W McMullen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
| | - Mark A Harrast
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
| | - Aaron L Baggish
- Cardiovascular Performance Program, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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