Effects of Dabigatran on the Resolution of Left Ventricular Thrombus after Acute Myocardial Infarction
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Published on: June 2, 2015
Norihiko Ohashi1, Takenori Okada, Mio Uchida
1Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima Red Cross Hospital & Atomic-bomb Survivors Hospital, Japan.
Insights
Left ventricular thrombus (LVT) after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) can cause embolic events. A case study shows dabigatran effectively treated LVT, suggesting it as a warfarin alternative for AMI patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Left ventricular thrombus (LVT) following acute myocardial infarction (AMI) poses a significant risk for embolic complications.
- Warfarin is the traditional treatment for LVT but has limitations.
Observation:
- A 78-year-old male patient with AMI and a history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation developed LVT.
- Transthoracic echocardiography confirmed a moderately sized LVT in the apex post-reperfusion therapy.
Findings:
- Treatment with dabigatran for 18 days resulted in the complete resolution of the LVT.
- This outcome suggests dabigatran's efficacy in managing LVT post-AMI.
Implications:
- Dabigatran may serve as a viable alternative to warfarin for treating LVT in patients with AMI.
- Further research is warranted to confirm dabigatran's role in LVT management post-myocardial infarction.
Abstract:
Left ventricular thrombus (LVT) after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a risk factor for embolic complications. Although warfarin has traditionally been used to treat LVT, it has relevant disadvantages that limit its use. We herein describe the case of a 78-year-old man with AMI who had a history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Following 10 days of urgent coronary reperfusion therapy, transthoracic echocardiography revealed a moderately sized LVT in the apex, which subsequently disappeared after 18 days of treatment with dabigatran. This case demonstrates that dabigatran may represent an alternative to warfarin as a therapeutic option in patients with LVT after AMI.
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