In asymptomatic moderate to severe degenerative MR, EIPH was independently associated with exercise capacity and predicted the occurrence of symptoms. Exercise stress echocardiography is an important tool in managing patients with asymptomatic degenerative MR.

The specificity in the correlation between STE-derived MAD and LVEF was found in patients with each heart disease, which should be taken into account when assessing these parameters.

Dynamic MR during exercise is related to the 3D changes in LV shape and in LV synchronicity.

SummaryBackground and hypothesis: Genetic influence on development of athlete's heart is uncertain. This study investigated whether angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene polymorphism influenced development of athlete's heart.Methods: Forty-three participants in a 100-km ultramarathon were classified on the basis of ACE gene polymorphism into a deletion group (n = 26) and an insertion group (n = 17). Echocardiograms were recorded to determine left ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic diameters, interventricular septal thickness, left ventricular posterior wall thickness, left ventricular mass, and ejection fraction.Results: Left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (65.5 k 4.0 mm) and left ventricular mass (369.5 k 73.9 g) were significantly larger in the subjects with deletion than in those with insertion (57.4 f 4.2 mm, 306.5 k 93.7 g). However, no significant differences in the other parameters were noted.Conclusions: In long-distance runners, ACE gene polymorphism of the D/D and DA genotypes has a stronger influence

We describe a patient with acute myocardial infarction, which was thought to result from plaque rupture or thrombosis because of coronary artery spasm. The vasospasm was most likely induced by stimulation of the α-adrenergic receptors during alternating heat exposure during sauna bathing and rapid cooling during cold water bathing. This report emphasizes the dangers of rapid cooling after sauna bathing in patients with coronary risk factors.