Sudden Cardiac Death in the Athlete

Book excerpt: The unexpected death of an athlete during exercise is a tragic irony - albeit with a history dating back to Pheldippides, who collapsed after his original Marathon run. We are more apt to consider vigorous exercise as a protective measure against cardiovascular events and not as a triggering mechanism for them. The relative rarity of such episodes makes the screening of those at risk even more of a challenge. This challenge is well met in this unique text, the first to deal specifically, authoritatively, and comprehensively with the issues of prediction and prevention of sudden cardiac death in the athlete. Many of the underlying cardiovascular diseases that put athletes at risk are identified and explained, including: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy arrhythmogenic right venticular dysplasia Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome anomalous origin of the coronary arteries inherited long QT syndromes The screening guidelines are of particular value, as are the recommendations regarding the participation of athletes with cardiovascular disease. Beyond its clinical scope, the editors have incorporated current information in epidemiology, cardiovascular pathophysiology, and the many vexing legal and ethical issues. With its in-depth, multi-faceted approach and prominent contributors, Sudden Cardiac Death in the Athlete is sure to be a much welcomed reference for sports medicine and team physicians, athletic directors and trainers, family practitioners, pediatricians, and cardiologists.