ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The role of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) in differentiating the athlete's heart from maladaptive cardiac hypertrophy is unclear. METHODS: To address this issue, an integrated M mode, two-dimensional B mode and Doppler echocardiographical study were performed and plasma BNP levels were measured in 25 strength athletes, 25 patients with established hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and 25 healthy volunteers. RESULTS: Among athletes, BNP levels correlated negatively with the total training time (r = -0.79, p = 0.002) and positively with ejection fraction (r = 0.58, p = 0.049) and fractional shortening (r = 0.57, p = 0.049). A BNP cut-off value of 11.8 pg/ml had 88% specificity and 74% negative predictive value for the exclusion of HCM. CONCLUSIONS: Brain natriuretic peptide might be useful as a preparticipation screening test in athletes.
Subject(s)
Cardiomyopathy, Hypertrophic/diagnosis , Natriuretic Peptide, Brain/metabolism , Sports , Adult , Biomarkers/metabolism , Echocardiography , Humans , Male , Pilot Projects , Young AdultABSTRACT
Primary cytomegalovirus infection is rare among immunocompetent hosts. We present a case of acute cytomegalovirus infection in a young immunocompetent female with pulmonary and hepatic involvement, admitted to our department due to severe exertional dyspnea. Patient's symptoms were completely atypical. Ganciclovir was administered succeeding complete clinical and laboratory signs's resolution.
