Literature Review: syncope evaluation in a young athlete, a review of normal vs abnormal ECG in athletes
Emergency Cardiology Literature Review & Updates with Dr. Amal Mattu
HPI
A 22-year-old male college basketball player presents to the ED after a syncopal episode during a late morning practice. Witnesses state that he shook for a few seconds but did not have a post-ictal period. He did not eat breakfast and had minimal fluid intake before practice. He reports feeling lightheaded and short of breath for a few seconds before the episode. He is now asymptomatic and has no significant past medical or family history. The following ECG is obtained:
Before watching this week’s video, ask yourself these questions:
- What ECG abnormalities do you notice?
- What is your differential diagnosis for patients with syncope, when history and physical exam do not suggest an obvious diagnosis?
- What is considered to be a normal ECG for an athlete?
- What is considered to be an abnormal ECG for an athlete?
- How would you manage this patient?