Coronary artery aneurysm with thrombus evaluated by multi-detector row computed tomography

Ryoko Mitsutake1, Shin-ichiro Miura, Toru Tanaka

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Fukuoka University School of Medicine.

Insights

A 60-year-old woman experienced acute myocardial infarction due to a right coronary artery thrombus complicated by coronary aneurysms. Multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) identified the cause, leading to warfarin anticoagulant therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) can arise from complex coronary artery pathologies.
  • Coronary aneurysms present a risk factor for thrombus formation and subsequent ischemic events.

Observation:

  • A 60-year-old female patient presented with symptoms suggestive of AMI.
  • Multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) revealed a thrombus within the right coronary artery, associated with coronary aneurysms.

Findings:

  • MDCT imaging was instrumental in accurately diagnosing the coexisting coronary aneurysms and thrombus.
  • The identified thrombus within the aneurysmal right coronary artery was deemed the causative factor for the patient's AMI.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the diagnostic utility of MDCT in complex coronary artery disease.
  • Prompt identification of thrombus in coronary aneurysms is crucial for initiating appropriate anticoagulant therapy, such as warfarin, to prevent recurrent ischemic events.

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