Spontaneous coronary artery dissection in a young woman precipitated by retching

Muthu Velusamy1, Mark Fisherkeller, Michael E Keenan

  • 1Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, Hartford Hospital, University of Connecticut, 80 Seymour Street, Hartford, CT 06102, USA.

Insights

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare cause of acute myocardial ischemia. Prolonged, forceful retching can induce SCAD, highlighting a new potential trigger for this condition.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Vascular Medicine
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an uncommon cause of acute myocardial ischemia, distinct from atherosclerotic plaque rupture.
  • Recognizing SCAD is crucial as its management differs from typical ischemic heart disease.

Observation:

  • A case study involving a 31-year-old female presenting with acute myocardial ischemia is detailed.
  • The patient's symptoms were precipitated by prolonged and forceful retching.

Findings:

  • This report documents the first known instance of SCAD triggered by prolonged retching.
  • The findings suggest a novel association between forceful emesis and the development of SCAD.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should consider prolonged retching as a potential precipitating event for SCAD.
  • This expands the clinical profiles and associated triggers for spontaneous coronary artery dissection.

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