Sudden cardiac death in a 20-year-old bodybuilder using anabolic steroids

Cardiology. 1995;86(2):172-3. doi: 10.1159/000176867.

Abstract

Anabolic steroid use is widespread and has been associated with a variety of pathological conditions. The subject of this case is a 20-year-old amateur bodybuilder who died of sudden cardiopulmonary arrest. He had no previous medical complaints but had a history of anabolic steroid abuse and a hypertrophic heart (515 g) at autopsy. This case presentation will discuss the cardiovascular effects of these drugs and the possible impact of long-term abuse.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anabolic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Death, Sudden, Cardiac / etiology*
  • Heart Arrest / chemically induced
  • Heart Arrest / complications*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Substance-Related Disorders / complications*
  • Weight Lifting*

Substances

  • Anabolic Agents