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Updated: May 28, 2026
05:58
Testing Acetylcholine Followed by Adenosine for Invasive Diagnosis of Coronary Vasomotor Disorders
Published on: February 3, 2021
Adenosine-induced coronary artery spasm: a case report
Montaser Ismail1, Nidal Asaad, Jassim Al-Suwaidi
1Department of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
Summary
Intravenous adenosine, used for supraventricular tachycardia, can rarely cause coronary artery spasm. This case highlights the need for caution with adenosine, particularly in patients prone to vasospastic reactions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a common arrhythmia.
- Intravenous adenosine is a first-line treatment for SVT.
- Adenosine's mechanism involves transient AV nodal blockade.
Observation:
- A 41-year-old female experienced SVT treated with IV adenosine.
- Post-adenosine, she developed chest pain and inferior ST elevation.
- Symptoms resolved with sublingual nitroglycerin.
Findings:
- The case demonstrates coronary artery spasm as an uncommon complication of adenosine administration.
- Adenosine can induce transient coronary vasospasm.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider coronary spasm in patients experiencing chest pain after adenosine.
- Caution is advised when administering adenosine to patients with a history of vasospastic disorders.
- Further research may explore the incidence and risk factors for adenosine-induced coronary spasm.
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