April 21, 2023Open Access
Is a History of Seizures an Important Risk Factor for Sudden Cardiac Death in Young Athletes?
Key Result
A history of seizures in a young athlete is a concerning symptom that requires comprehensive multidisciplinary investigation to mitigate the risk of sudden cardiac death.
Structured PICO
Does a history of seizures indicate an increased risk of sudden cardiac death in young athletes?
P
Population
Young athletes with a history of seizures or epilepsy
A history of seizures in young athletes is a critical symptom that requires thorough multidisciplinary investigation to rule out epilepsy-related sudden death (SUDEP) or primary cardiac arrhythmias misdiagnosed as seizures.
Abstract
Abstract Purpose of Review This review examines the significance of seizures in young athletes and the complex inter-relationship between seizures, epilepsy, and sudden cardiac death. Recent Findings A history of seizures may reflect a diagnosis of epilepsy, which should be medically optimized for athletic participation. Epilepsy is associated with sudden unexplained cardiac death (sudden unexplained death in epilepsy, SUDEP), with multiple genetic links identified to define some patients as experiencing a “cardiocerebral channelopathy.” It is also important to consider that a history of seizures may reflect a misdiagnosis of cardiac syncope, requiring careful cardiac evaluation and risk stratification. Summary A history of seizures in a young athlete is important to characterize fully and investigate as required. The association of seizures with young sudden cardiac death is still under investigation.