Abstract
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is one of the primary causes of sudden cardiac
death in athletes < 35 years of age. The highest risk of sudden cardiac death
is associated with syncope, early age, extreme ventricular hypertrophy, ventricular
tachycardia, and a family history of sudden death. The relative risk in competitive
sports is unknown. Usually, sports eligibility is rejected. However, some athletes
with HCM tolerate extreme athletic lifestyles without complications. Sports-related
aspects of diagnosis, therapy, and sports eligibility are presented, and discussed.
Two case reports are presented: a 20-year-old professional soccer player and a
66-year-old long-distance runner. Athletes with HCM should not participate in
most competitive sports with the possible exception of those of low dynamic and
low static intensity. Participation in low to moderate athletic activities may
be allowed in selected patients without risk factors and > 35 years of age.
Key words
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy - prevention - sports eligibility - sudden cardiac death
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Dr. A. Hipp
Abteilung Sportmedizin, Medizinische Klinik, Universität Tübingen
Silcherstraße 5 · 72076 Tübingen · Germany ·
Phone: +49 7071 2986493
Fax: +49 7071 295162
Email: arno.hipp@med.uni-tuebingen.de