Seven Days Non-stop Running: Haematological, Biochemical and Echocardiographic Findings in Ultramarathon Runner

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: An ultramarathon is any organized foot-race longer than the traditional marathon running distance of 42,195m. This endurance sport has gained popularity during the last decade. Only a few studies have been published regarding long-distance running events. PURPOSE: To investigate haematological variations including plasma volume (PV), haemoglobin (Hgb), haematocrit (Hct), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), total red blood cell count (RBC), total white blood cell count (WBC). To evaluate serum level changes of enzymes including creatine kinase, creatine kinase-MB, lactate dehydrogenase and cardiac troponin T. To verify echocardiographic regional wall-motion abnormalities and to determine absolute cardiac volume values. METHODS: Venous blood samples were obtained (by Vacutainer K3E) from a 61 year old male elite athlete before, during and immediately after the end of the event. Samples were analyzed by standard methods (Sysmex 1800-XT). An echocardiogram (M-mode, D-mode and Doppler analysis) was performed 12 h before and 10 min after the race. RESULTS: Significant decreases of Hgb, MCH, MCHC, WBC were found during and at the conclusion of the race. Significant post-race increases were found for creatine kinase (919%), creatine kinase-MB (361%), lactate dehydrogenase (179%). Cardiac Troponin T (cTnT) was not detected after the race. Echocardiographic parameters indicatives for both systolic and diastolic function were not altered after the race and there was no evidence of regional wall-motion abnormalities. CONCLUSIONS: Ultramarathon running is associated to haematological and biochemical modifications related to skeletal muscle damage. Enzymatic and echocardiographic research did not provide evidence of myocardiac dysfunction and injury.