exercise-induced ventricular tachycardia
A potentially life-threatening arrhythmia triggered specifically by physical exertion, requiring immediate sports restriction and cardiac evaluation.
Full Definition
Exercise-induced ventricular tachycardia is a serious cardiac arrhythmia characterized by rapid, abnormal electrical activity in the heart's ventricles that occurs during or immediately following physical activity. Unlike ventricular tachycardia that occurs at rest, this condition is specifically triggered by the physiological demands of exercise, including increased heart rate, catecholamine release, and altered electrolyte balance. Athletes experiencing this condition face immediate disqualification from competitive sports until comprehensive cardiac evaluation and risk stratification are completed. The condition may indicate underlying structural heart disease, channelopathies, or other cardiac abnormalities that predispose to sudden cardiac death during exertion.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate the compound modifier; abbreviate as VT in subsequent references within the same document.
In Context
- "The athlete's collapse during sprint training was attributed to exercise-induced ventricular tachycardia documented on the implantable loop recorder." — Emergency department report
- "Exercise-induced ventricular tachycardia remains an absolute contraindication for competitive sports participation pending further evaluation." — Sports cardiology consultation note