Acute myocardial infarction after blunt chest wall trauma with underlying coronary aneurysm: a case report

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pediatric Cardiology
• Medical Case Studies

Background:

• Kawasaki disease is a common cause of acquired heart disease in children.
• Coronary artery abnormalities, including aneurysms, are significant complications.
• Optimal management strategies for acute coronary events in this population remain debated.

Observation:

• A 20-year-old female presented with acute myocardial infarction following blunt chest trauma.
• Imaging revealed coronary artery calcifications and giant left anterior descending aneurysms, indicative of prior Kawasaki disease.
• The patient experienced chest pain, breathlessness, and syncope.

Findings:

• Diagnostic workup, including CT angiography, confirmed myocardial infarction and coronary artery aneurysms.
• A conservative management approach was adopted for the patient.
• The patient remained asymptomatic with preserved left ventricular function at 2-year follow-up.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for late cardiovascular complications in individuals with a history of Kawasaki disease.
• Conservative management may be effective for traumatic myocardial infarction in the presence of coronary artery aneurysms.
• Prompt medical intervention can lead to favorable short-term outcomes, preserving cardiac function.