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Bicuspid aortic valve and sports: From the echocardiographic evaluation to the eligibility for sports competition
Author(s) -
D’Ascenzi Flavio,
Valentini Francesca,
Anselmi Francesca,
Cavigli Luna,
Bandera Francesco,
Benfari Giovanni,
D’Andrea Antonello,
Di Salvo Giovanni,
Esposito Roberta,
Evola Vincenzo,
Malagoli Alessandro,
Elena Mandoli Giulia,
Santoro Ciro,
Galderisi Maurizio,
Mondillo Sergio,
Cameli Matteo
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
scandinavian journal of medicine and science in sports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.575
H-Index - 115
eISSN - 1600-0838
pISSN - 0905-7188
DOI - 10.1111/sms.13895
Subject(s) - bicuspid aortic valve , medicine , athletes , cardiology , regurgitation (circulation) , aortic valve , stenosis , competitive athletes , physical therapy
Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is the most common congenital heart defect in adults. Although a BAV may remain without clinical consequences for a lifetime, it can deteriorate in aortic valve stenosis and regurgitation and aortic dilatation. Unfortunately, the impact of regular training on patients with BAV and its natural course is not fully understood, although preliminary evidence suggests that the progression of valvular disease occurs primarily in an independent manner from sports practice. The current review aims to report how to perform a comprehensive echocardiographic examination in athletes with BAV and analyze the current literature on the influence of sports practice and how it impacts the aortic valve in athletes with BAV. The article also summarizes the current recommendations on sports eligibility and disqualification for competitive athletes with BAV.