Coronary Artery Embolism: Two Case Reports and a Review of the Literature

Philip S Vendittelli1, Bassent Botros1, Howard S Rosman2

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, Ascension Health, Saint John Hospital and Medical Center, Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan.

Insights

Coronary embolism (CE) is a rare cause of heart attack, often presenting with chest pain. This condition has a high mortality rate, necessitating increased awareness and further research for better management.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Vascular Medicine

Background:

  • Coronary embolism (CE) is an infrequent cause of acute myocardial infarction (AMI).
  • Understanding the characteristics and outcomes of CE is crucial for improving patient care.

Observation:

  • This review analyzed 216 cases of CE, including 2 new cases.
  • The average patient age was 52.5 years, with 62% males.
  • The left anterior descending artery was most frequently affected.

Findings:

  • Common symptoms included chest pain and dyspnea.
  • Primary causes were atrial fibrillation, septic emboli, and iatrogenic factors.
  • Thrombus aspiration was used in 30% of treatments.
  • In-hospital mortality was 36%, with 13% experiencing cerebrovascular accidents.

Implications:

  • CE requires a high index of suspicion due to potentially misleading symptoms.
  • Improved recognition and management strategies are needed to reduce high mortality rates.
  • Further research is essential to enhance diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for coronary embolism.

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