Areca Nut Chewing Complicated with Non-Obstructive and Obstructive ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction.
Ying-Chih Chen1, Hsiang-Chun Lee2, Hei-Hwa Lee3
1Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University;
Acta Cardiologica Sinica
|April 29, 2016
Summary
Areca nut chewing, a common habit, can rarely lead to ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), a severe heart attack. This report details two cases, highlighting the potential for myocardial injury and coronary obstruction from areca nut use.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Areca nut chewing is a widespread global habit linked to various health issues.
- ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a rare but documented complication.
Observation:
- Two patients presented with STEMI following areca nut consumption.
- One patient had non-obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD), while the other experienced left circumflex artery occlusion requiring percutaneous coronary intervention.
- Elevated plasma levels of arecoline and arecaidine were detected in both cases, with higher concentrations in the patient with coronary obstruction.
Findings:
- Areca nut chewing can precipitate myocardial injury of varying severity.
- STEMI with significant coronary obstruction is an extremely rare complication of areca nut use.
Implications:
- Physicians should consider areca nut consumption in patients presenting with myocardial injury.
- This underscores the critical need for awareness regarding the cardiovascular risks associated with areca nut chewing.
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