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Multiple coronary artery-left ventricular fistulae: clinical, angiographic, and pathologic findings
I W Black1, C K Loo, R M Allan
1Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Prince Henry Hospital, Little Bay, Sydney, Australia.
Insights
This study reports a rare case of multiple coronary artery fistulae connecting to the left ventricle in a woman with angina. The anomaly, confirmed by autopsy, involved abnormal intramyocardial vessels.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pathology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Coronary artery fistulae are uncommon vascular anomalies.
- Typical angina symptoms prompted investigation.
Observation:
- Cardiac catheterization revealed multiple fistulae between all three major coronary arteries and the left ventricle.
- A 69-year-old woman presented with classic angina symptoms.
Findings:
- Necropsy confirmed abnormal intramyocardial vessels directly communicating with the left ventricular lumen.
- This represents the first documented case with integrated clinical, angiographic, and pathological data.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering rare coronary anomalies in angina diagnosis.
- Contributes to the understanding of coronary artery anomalies and their presentation.
- Provides a comprehensive case study for medical education and research.
Abstract:
Multiple fistulae between all 3 major coronary arteries and the left ventricle were found at cardiac catheterization in a 69-year-old woman presenting with typical angina. Subsequent necropsy showed abnormal intramyocardial vessels communicating with the left ventricular lumen. This is the first report to document clinical, angiographic, and pathologic findings in this anomaly.