Anabolic androgenic steroid induced myocardial toxicity: an evolving problem in an ageing population

BMJ Case Rep. 2011 Aug 17:2011:bcr0520114280. doi: 10.1136/bcr.05.2011.4280.

Abstract

Widespread use of anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) abuse is a rapidly increasing public health concern with an expanding demographic. Previous studies and reports have been exclusive to young individuals at low risk for traditional, non-AAS associated, cardiovascular disease. To date, the impact of AAS use on older patients has not been well characterised. The patient herein presented documents a dramatic case of an older individual who developed decompensated heart failure secondary to illicit use of AAS, highlighting an evolving problem among a rapidly expanding demographic and illustrating that a) AAS, used to alter appearance or augment performance, is no longer an issue confined to young adults; b) older individuals with ageing myocardium may be particularly susceptible to AAS toxicity and may present with fulminate congestive heart failure; and that c) AAS abstinence coupled with traditional heart failure pharmacotherapy may be an effective treatment for this condition.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anabolic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Cardiomyopathies / chemically induced*
  • Cardiomyopathies / diagnostic imaging
  • Cardiomyopathies / drug therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diuretics / therapeutic use
  • Echocardiography, Doppler
  • Furosemide / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Lisinopril / therapeutic use
  • Male
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Anabolic Agents
  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Diuretics
  • Furosemide
  • Lisinopril