It is generally accepted that vigorous exercise may trigger cardiovascular accidents if underlying cardiovascular disease is present. Coronary artery disease is the most frequent cause of sudden cardiac arrest, especially in older individuals (> or = 35 years of age). We describe two patients who presented with cardiac arrest followed by loss of consciousness. Both had been participating in a marathon race. After acute myocardial infarction was diagnosed by electrocardiography and laboratory findings, urgent percutaneous coronary intervention was performed on both patients.
Adult ; Cardiovascular Diseases ; Continental Population Groups ; Coronary Artery Disease ; Death, Sudden, Cardiac ; Electrocardiography ; Heart Arrest ; Humans ; Myocardial Infarction ; Percutaneous Coronary Intervention ; Unconsciousness