Arterial pathologies in athletes.

Abstract

Identification and treatment of arterial pathologies in athletes can present a significant challenge because symptoms may be nonspecific and standard examination is often unremarkable. Sportspeople frequently experience long delays to diagnosis, during which time their ability to exercise and their quality of life may be severely impacted. Though the conditions that affect this young patient group may not be widely seen in the general population, knowledge of their existence and recognition of the need for specialist referral can aid early identification and appropriate management. Due to the relatively low number of reported cases, there is a paucity of robust evidence regarding optimal management of these conditions and treatment recommendations are therefore based largely upon expert consensus. It is hoped that wider use of international registries will help to address this deficit and inform future guidelines.