Collapse in Athletes: Etiology and Management

Abstract

The profile of episodes of collapse in sport is currently high following recently publicised cases in elite athletes. Episodes of collapse can however have a range of causes, which commonly can be benign. Having an awareness of the common causes and a structured system of how to approach the collapsed athlete can be reassuring for event medical staff. This article discusses the various causes of collapse in athletes and describes such a structured system of examination. Basic life support and use of an automated external defibrillator are also covered.