Jornal Vascular Brasileiro
https://jvascbras.org/article/doi/10.1590/1677-5449.200122
Jornal Vascular Brasileiro
Case Report

External iliac artery endofibrosis in an elite female endurance cyclist

Endofibrose da artéria ilíaca externa em uma ciclista de resistência de elite

Victor Bilman; Enrico Rinaldi; Francesca Sanvito; Germano Melissano; Roberto Chiesa

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Abstract

Abstract: External iliac artery endofibrosis is a rare pathology that affects high-level endurance athletes, especially cyclists. Classical symptoms include pain, loss of power, and/or cramp in the affected limb while training at maximal effort. The patient’s lack of atherosclerotic risk factors makes clinical suspicion of arteriopathy challenging. Moreover, the best management of such patients is still a subject of discussion. We report the case of a 36-year-old professional female endurance cyclist who presented with lower extremity pain during training. Right external iliac artery endofibrosis was diagnosed and the patient underwent surgical treatment. At two-months follow-up, she reported significant improvement in symptoms. This case highlights the importance of diagnosing peripheral vascular disease in young patients and athletes, who do not fit the ordinary profile of patients with atherosclerotic risk factors.

Keywords

iliac artery, fibrosis, sports medicine, bicycling

Resumo

Resumo: A endofibrose da artéria ilíaca externa é uma doença rara que afeta atletas de resistência (endurance) de nível competitivo, principalmente ciclistas. Os sintomas clássicos incluem dor, perda de força e/ou câimbras no membro afetado ao fazer esforço máximo durante o treino. A ausência de fatores de risco ateroscleróticos nesses pacientes torna a suspeita clínica de arteriopatia desafiadora. Além disso, o melhor manejo ainda é motivo de debate. Relatamos o caso de uma ciclista de resistência profissional, de 36 anos, que apresentou dor nos membros inferiores durante o treino. Foi diagnosticada endofibrose da artéria ilíaca externa, e a paciente foi submetida a tratamento cirúrgico. Após seguimento por dois meses, a paciente relatou melhora significativa dos sintomas. Este caso destaca a importância do diagnóstico de doença vascular periférica em pacientes jovens e atletas, os quais não se encaixam no perfil comum do paciente com fatores de risco ateroscleróticos.
 

Palavras-chave

artéria ilíaca, fibrose, medicina do esporte, ciclismo

References

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Submitted date:
07/05/2020

Accepted date:
08/20/2020

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