Myocardial infarction during adenosine stress test.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Adenosine stress testing is a common diagnostic tool for myocardial perfusion imaging.
• It is generally considered to have a good safety profile.
• Myocardial infarction is a rare complication associated with adenosine stress testing.

Observation:

• A 65-year-old woman with ischemic heart disease experienced an inferior myocardial infarction during an adenosine stress test.
• The patient received prompt thrombolytic treatment and recovered uneventfully.
• This event occurred despite adenosine's established safety record.

Findings:

• The case report details a rare instance of myocardial infarction during adenosine stress testing.
• This complication is exceedingly uncommon, with only one prior reported case under specific circumstances (post-percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty with dissection).
• The patient's recovery was uneventful following immediate medical intervention.

Implications:

• Clinicians should remain aware of rare but serious complications associated with adenosine stress testing.
• While generally safe, the potential for myocardial infarction necessitates vigilance.
• This case underscores the importance of prompt management protocols for adverse events during stress imaging.