title: Most sudden deaths in adolescent athletes caused by cardiac conditions.
abstract: The majority of cases of sudden, unexpected death in athletes are related to cardiovascular anomalies. Some of these anomalies may be diagnosed with a preparticipation examination including a thorough history of previous symptoms that would suggest a cardiovascular diagnosis. In addition, a complete and thorough family history should be obtained, not only from the athlete but also from the athlete's parents. If any family members have the diagnosis of HCM or prolonged Q-T syndrome, a history of sudden, unexpected death, or have used a pacemaker, this should be a possible clue for diagnosis. Once a cardiovascular diagnosis is made, the athlete should be subject to the accepted guidelines for participation in athletics and competitive sports.
authors: Department of Pediatrics, Presbyterian/St. Luke's Medical Center, Denver, Colorado, USA.
authors: Reginald L
authors: RL
authors: Washington
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D002312:Cardiomyopathy, Hypertrophic / Q000150:complications; D003330:Coronary Vessel Anomalies / Q000150:complications; D003645:Death, Sudden / Q000209:etiology*; D016757:Death, Sudden, Cardiac / Q000209:etiology; D004562:Electrocardiography; D006331:Heart Diseases / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D029593:Jervell-Lange Nielsen Syndrome / Q000150:complications; D008382:Marfan Syndrome / Q000150:complications; D013177:Sports