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Coronary spasm in acute myocardial infarction
Ana Rita Victor1, Paulo Osório, Luís do Rosário
1Serviço de Cardiologia, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada, Portugal. anaritavictor@iol.pt
Summary
This case study highlights coronary spasm as a cause of acute myocardial infarction in a young adult. Coronary arteries appeared normal until spasm occurred during angiography.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Clinical Case Reports
Background:
- Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) typically results from coronary artery disease.
- Coronary artery spasm, while a known entity, is less commonly the primary cause of AMI, especially in young individuals.
Observation:
- A 22-year-old patient presented with chest pain, indicative of AMI.
- Coronary angiography initially showed normal coronary arteries.
Findings:
- Coronary artery spasm was identified as the cause of AMI during the angiography procedure.
- This suggests spasm can precipitate myocardial infarction even with angiographically normal vessels.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering coronary artery spasm in young patients with AMI.
- Underscores the need for diagnostic evaluation for spasm in cases of unexplained myocardial infarction.