The Acute Cardiovascular Effects of Marathon Running Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The Acute Cardiovascular Effects of Marathon Running Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Using blood testing and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the investigators aim to determine if there are necrotic areas of myocardium in participants who complete a marathon. In addition, the investigators aim to describe the acute and chronic structural abnormalities that occur as a result of endurance training. The study hypothesis is that myocardial necrosis is present in runners completing a marathon competition.

MARATHON-MI is a prospective, observational study of twenty-five (25) participants with plans of completing the Detroit Free Press Marathon in Detroit, Michigan on October 19, 2008. All participants will undergo a rigorous pre-marathon screening process which will include: 1) blood testing, 2) complete cardiopulmonary exercise testing, 3) ECG testing, 4) Holter monitoring, 5) cardiac MRI. Blood work will be check after the marathon immediately after and one day after the event. Cardiac MRI will be repeated within 12 hours of finishing the marathon. Using the information derived from the blood work and radiological testing, we will attempt to determine if there is an association between marathon running and myocardial necrosis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Detroit Free Press Marathon participant on October 19, 2008,
• Age > 18 years old,
• Ability to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Known coronary or structural heart disease
• Pregnancy,
• Extreme claustrophobia,
• Metal implants,
• Renal dysfunction.