Syncope in an athlete. The importance of distinguishing between potentially lethal pathologies versus benign etiology

Abstract

Objective: Syncope is frequent in general population and relatively rare in the athlete population. Safety and physical activity in athletes who have presented a syncope is not yet well established.

Method: Young male, elite soccer player, who presents a syncope while performing physical activity. He has no personal or family history of interest. After presenting pathological ECG, the suspension of the sport activity is considered.

Results: In a complete cardiologic study, several dubious findings that can be considered physiological in the athlete's heart were identified. It allows the resumption of high intensity physical activity with favourable follow-up.

Discussion: The main objective of the evaluation of the athlete with syncope is to determine if there is underlying heart disease and if he can continue with the sport activity safely.