Coronary artery disease associated with factor V Leiden mutation: a case report

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Genetics
• Thrombophilia

Background:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD) is increasing in young adults.
• Traditional risk factors are often present, but new associations are emerging.
• The link between factor V Leiden mutation and atherosclerosis is debated.

Observation:

• A 37-year-old woman with no prior symptoms developed rapid angina.
• Coronary angiography showed significant left anterior descending artery obstruction.
• Optical coherence tomography revealed a vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque.

Findings:

• The patient underwent successful coronary angioplasty with a drug-eluting stent.
• Thrombophilia screening revealed a heterozygous factor V R506Q mutation (factor V Leiden).
• No prior thromboembolic events were noted.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential role of factor V Leiden in early-onset atherosclerosis.
• Management strategies for young patients with atherosclerosis and hereditary thrombophilia require further investigation.
• Understanding these associations is crucial for personalized cardiovascular risk assessment.