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COVID-19 Vaccine–Associated Myocarditis Considerations for Competitive Athletes

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Current Treatment Options in Cardiovascular Medicine Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of review

To review the epidemiology of COVID-19 vaccine–associated myocarditis (VAM), evaluation of athletes with suspected VAM, and safe return to play for athletes with confirmed VAM.

Recent findings

VAM is a rare complication of COVID-19 vaccination, with pretest probability highest in those who experience chest pain within several days after messenger RNA vaccine administration. While data from young athletes with VAM are lacking, the initial evaluation for those with high pre-test probability of VAM includes ECG, echocardiography, and troponin testing. Those with abnormal testing warrant cardiac magnetic resonance imaging to confirm the diagnosis of VAM. Athletes with confirmed VAM should be restricted from exercise until resolution of symptoms and cardiac inflammation and confirmation of normal cardiac function and electrical stability.

Summary

Suspicion for VAM in athletes should be guided by clinical presentation and pretest probability. Evaluation and management of VAM are similar to that of viral myocarditis. Further longitudinal studies are needed to define the clinical course of VAM in athletic populations.

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Funding

Dr. Kim is supported by the National Institute of Health (1R01HL162712).

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  1. Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, 1750 Haygood Drive NE, HSRB II, N251, Atlanta, GA30322, USA

    Jason V. Tso MD & Jonathan H. Kim MD, MSc

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Correspondence to Jonathan H. Kim MD, MSc.

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Jason V. Tso declares that he has no conflict of interest. Jonathan H. Kim declares that he has no conflict of interest.

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Tso, J.V., Kim, J.H. COVID-19 Vaccine–Associated Myocarditis Considerations for Competitive Athletes. Curr Treat Options Cardio Med 25, 573–585 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11936-023-01009-z

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