Atrial cardiomyopathy in endurance athletes.

Abstract

Atrial cardiomyopathy is characterized by electrical and structural remodeling of the atria, which can predispose to arrhythmias and thromboembolic stroke. Changes in atrial size and function are frequently observed in athletes engaged in endurance sports, a phenomenon known as "athlete's heart." Common left atrial observations in athletes may include larger left atrial volumes but lower left atrioventricular volume ratios, mildly reduced left atrial strain, possible mild left atrial fibrosis, longer P-wave duration, and greater atrial ectopic activity. However, it remains unclear whether these changes represent physiological adaptations to endurance exercise or disease-promoting pathology. ..