Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: A Case Report

Vahid Mokhberi1, Babak Bagheri1, Seyfollah Navidi1

  • 1Department of Heart, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.

Insights

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare cause of heart attack, especially in women. This case highlights SCAD in a young woman post-childbirth, emphasizing the need for timely diagnosis and intervention.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Vascular Medicine

Background:

  • Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an uncommon cause of acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
  • While atherosclerosis is a common cause, SCAD can occur in individuals without traditional risk factors.
  • SCAD predominantly affects women and can lead to sudden cardiac death.

Observation:

  • A 36-year-old woman presented with acute chest pain, a symptom of ACS.
  • The patient had no atherosclerosis risk factors and had recently given birth (6 months prior).
  • Coronary angiography revealed spontaneous dissection of the left anterior descending artery.

Findings:

  • SCAD was diagnosed in a young woman without typical risk factors for atherosclerosis.
  • The patient experienced acute chest pain attributed to SCAD.
  • Coronary artery bypass graft surgery was performed.

Implications:

  • This case underscores that SCAD can affect young women without traditional risk factors, particularly postpartum.
  • Early diagnosis via coronary angiography is crucial for appropriate management.
  • Surgical intervention like coronary artery bypass graft can be effective in managing SCAD.

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