Subclavian artery dissection presenting as non-ST elevation myocardial infarction
Jean Touchan1, Martin Cerda, Doug B Chapman
1University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Fla., USA.
Cardiology
|June 7, 2014
Summary
Spontaneous subclavian artery dissection is rare. This case report details a 55-year-old female with dissection presenting as non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), a novel clinical manifestation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Vascular Surgery
- Interventional Cardiology
Background:
- Spontaneous subclavian artery dissection (SCA) is an uncommon vascular emergency.
- SCA can present with diverse clinical symptoms, often mimicking other cardiovascular conditions.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
Observation:
- A 55-year-old female presented with symptoms consistent with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).
- Diagnostic workup revealed a proximal left subclavian artery dissection.
- This presentation of SCA as NSTEMI is highly unusual.
Findings:
- The case highlights a rare instance of SCA manifesting as NSTEMI.
- A review of existing literature on SCA clinical features and treatments is provided.
- This represents the first documented case of SCA presenting as NSTEMI.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider SCA in the differential diagnosis of NSTEMI, especially in younger patients or those without typical cardiac risk factors.
- This case expands the known spectrum of clinical presentations for subclavian artery dissection.
- Further research may be warranted to understand the specific mechanisms linking SCA and myocardial infarction.
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