Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 12, 2026

A Research Method For Detecting Transient Myocardial Ischemia In Patients With Suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome Using Continuous ST-segment Analysis
18:11

A Research Method For Detecting Transient Myocardial Ischemia In Patients With Suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome Using Continuous ST-segment Analysis

Published on: December 28, 2012

Acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction secondary to paradoxical embolism

Suresh Krishnamoorthy, Faizel Osman, Adnan Nadir

    International Journal of Cardiology
    |August 28, 2007
    PubMed

    Insights

    Acute myocardial infarction (STEMI) can occur in young adults without risk factors. A paradoxical embolus through an atrial septal defect (ASD) is a potential cause that warrants investigation.

    Area of Science:

    • Cardiology
    • Vascular Medicine
    • Embolism

    Background:

    • Acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a critical cardiovascular event.
    • Commonly caused by coronary atheromatous plaque rupture.
    • Less frequent causes include septic emboli, cholesterol emboli, and cocaine abuse.

    Observation:

    • A young female patient presented with acute STEMI.
    • She had no traditional vascular risk factors.
    • A presumptive paradoxical embolism via a secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) was identified.

    Findings:

    • The case highlights a rare etiology of STEMI in young individuals.
    • Paradoxical embolism through an ASD can lead to myocardial infarction.
    • This mechanism bypasses typical coronary artery disease pathways.

    Implications:

    • Young patients with myocardial infarction and no risk factors require thorough investigation.
    • Screening for cardiac shunts like ASD is crucial in unexplained STEMI cases.
    • Identifying paradoxical embolism can guide targeted treatment and prevention strategies.

    Related Concept Videos

    Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations01:19

    Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations

    The pathophysiology of Acute Coronary Syndrome [ACD] involves several key processes:The main underlying cause of ACD is atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of lipid-laden plaques within the coronary arteries.As the atherosclerotic plaque grows in the coronary artery, it may become unstable due to the formation of a lipid-rich core and a thin fibrous cap. Inflammatory cells within the plaque, such as macrophages, secrete enzymes that degrade the...
    Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction01:30

    Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction

    Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) encompasses a spectrum of heart conditions caused by sudden obstruction of coronary arteries, typically resulting from the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque and subsequent thrombus (blood clot) formation. This obstruction can lead to partial or complete blockage of blood flow, causing varying degrees of myocardial ischemia or infarction.ACS includes the following clinical entities:Unstable Angina (UA)Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI)ST-Elevation...
    Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction01:29

    Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction

    Pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs when a thrombus, fat or air embolus, amniotic fluid, or tumor tissue blocks one or more pulmonary arteries. These blockages originate in the venous system or the right side of the heart.EtiologyPE primarily arises from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other hypercoagulable states, such as inherited thrombophilias. Additional etiological factors include venous stasis, commonly seen in obesity, and endothelial injury from surgery and trauma. Less common causes include...
    Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction01:19

    Pulmonary Embolism I: Introduction

    A blood clot, or thrombus, is a semi-solid mass composed of fibrin, platelets, and red blood cells. When it forms within a vessel, it can obstruct blood flow, known as thrombosis. If part of the clot detaches, it becomes an embolus that can travel and block distant vessels. When this occurs in the pulmonary arteries, it causes a condition known as pulmonary embolism (PE).Origin and ImpactMost often, the embolus originates from a thrombus in the deep veins of the lower limbs, a condition called...
    Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies01:30

    Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies

    Diagnosing acute coronary syndrome or ACS begins with a thorough patient history. Notable symptoms include central, crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back, along with shortness of breath, sweating (diaphoresis), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations.It is crucial to note any history of cardiac illnesses and assess risk factors, including age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle.During physical examination, vital...
    Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care01:29

    Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care

    Diagnosing Pulmonary EmbolismDiagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE) involves clinical assessment and advanced imaging tests. The preferred diagnostic tool is the spiral (helical) CT scan or CT angiography (CTA), which uses intravenous contrast media to visualize the pulmonary vasculature and identify emboli.A ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan is an alternative for patients unable to receive contrast media. This scan includes both perfusion and ventilation scanning. Perfusion scanning involves...