Spontaneous Coronary Dissection Masquerading as Benign Fascicular Ventricular Tachycardia

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Sara Wei-Fen Ho1, Weiqin Lin2, Koo Hui Chan2

  • 1Department of Medicine, National University Hospital, National University Health System, Singapore.

Heart, Lung & Circulation
|October 18, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection, a rare cause of acute coronary syndrome, can present atypically with cardiac arrhythmia. Early diagnosis via coronary angiogram is crucial for timely treatment and management.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Interventional Cardiology
  • Cardiac Electrophysiology

Background:

  • Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an infrequent cause of acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
  • SCAD diagnosis typically relies on coronary angiography.
  • Prompt revascularization is a cornerstone of SCAD management.

Observation:

  • This case highlights an unusual presentation of SCAD mimicking benign fascicular ventricular tachycardia.
  • The patient exhibited cardiac arrhythmia as the primary symptom.

Findings:

  • A high index of suspicion enabled early diagnosis of SCAD.
  • Coronary angiography confirmed the diagnosis of spontaneous coronary artery dissection.
  • The patient received timely treatment for this life-threatening condition.

Implications:

  • Recognizing atypical presentations of SCAD is vital for prompt diagnosis and intervention.
  • Early coronary angiography should be considered in cases of unexplained cardiac arrhythmia.
  • This case underscores the importance of a broad differential diagnosis in acute cardiac events.

Keywords:
ElectrocardiogramIntravascular ultrasoundPercutaneous coronary interventionSpontaneous coronary artery dissectionVentricular tachycardia

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