Elevated troponins and the Churg-Strauss syndrome: a case report

Joseph Zaky1, Chris Caraang, Roger Yu

  • 1Department of Medicine, Sylmar, California 91342-1495, USA.

Insights

Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS) can cause elevated troponins and multi-organ damage, mimicking cardiac events. Early diagnosis and corticosteroid treatment are crucial for managing this eosinophilic condition.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Rheumatology
  • Pulmonology

Background:

  • Elevated troponin levels with normal ischemic work-up present a diagnostic challenge.
  • Eosinophilia can be associated with various conditions, including cardiac involvement.

Observation:

  • A 65-year-old woman presented with recurrent chest pain, elevated troponins, and persistent eosinophilia.
  • Her condition progressed to multi-organ abnormalities, including asthma and vasculitis, leading to a Churg-Strauss syndrome diagnosis.

Findings:

  • Corticosteroid initiation rapidly resolved symptoms and normalized troponin and eosinophil levels.
  • Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS) was identified as the cause of cardiac and systemic manifestations.

Implications:

  • Consider Churg-Strauss syndrome in the differential diagnosis of unexplained eosinophilia with cardiac involvement.
  • Early detection and treatment of CSS are vital to prevent severe multi-organ damage and improve patient outcomes.

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