Abnormal eCG Findings in Amateur Athletes: Comparison of the 2013 and 2017 seattle Criteria

pp. 145-148

Abstract

Background: The specificity of the electrocardiogram as a diagnostic tool for causes of sudden cardiac death in athletes depends on the criteria used to discern between physiological and pathological alterations.

Objectives: To assess the prevalence of abnormal electrocardiographic (ECG) findings in amateur athletes when comparing the 2013 and 2017 Seattle Criteria.

Methods: A total of 853 athletes were evaluated. Gender and age were evaluated as independent predictor variables. Follow-up was carried out by means of complementary diagnostic methods.
Results: A total of 29 athletes presented abnormal electrocardiograms according to 2013 criteria, and 17 athletes according to 2017 criteria, constituting 3.4% and 2% of cases, respectively. No significant differences were found between gender or age.

Conclusions: Among the ECG considered abnormal according to the 2013 criteria, 41.4% were considered normal when applying the criteria redefined in 2017. Neither gender nor age are independent predictor variables. In none of the patients heart disease could be demonstrated during follow-up.