Prevalence of complete and incomplete right bundle branch block in young athletes: A local study

Background and aims Sparse data exists to characterize the disease prevalence in athletic patients with complete and incomplete right bundle branch block: (CRBBB) and (IRBBB) respectively. We sought to determine this prevalence in a local sport medical centre. Methods We analysed ECG of athletes on-going a routine and mandatory medical examination in our local sport medical centre. All participants had 2 months of regular activity for at least 4 hours a week (h/w) prior to inclusion. Median follow-up period was 18 months. Results Five hundred and forty-eight athletes were enrolled in the study. History, physical examination and a 12 lead standard ECG was performed for all the participants. Demographic and baseline information for the study participants are exposed in Table 1 . BBBD pattern was found in 77 (14%) participants, only one had CRBBB. IRBBB prevalence was 13.86% and CRBBB 0.1%. The athlete with CRBBB had not associated electrocardiographic anomalies suggesting Brugada syndrome or arrythmogenic right ventricle cardiomyopathy. He had a normal Treadmill stress test. His echocardiogram showed mild right ventricle dilatation and was allowed to continue his activity. No events were noticed in this population subset. Conclusion RBBB is not rare in athlete's community. IRBBB is more common and considered benign. CRBBB is more rare and needs further work-up.