Hyperdominant left anterior descending artery presenting as anterior wall ST segment elevation myocardial infarction:

Shahrukh Hashmani1, Abid Hussain Laghari1

  • 1Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi.

Insights

A rare coronary artery anomaly, where the left anterior descending artery continues as the posterior descending artery, was identified in a patient with acute myocardial infarction. Successful percutaneous coronary intervention restored blood flow.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Anatomical Variations
  • Interventional Cardiology

Background:

  • Coronary artery anomalies are uncommon and can present with diverse clinical manifestations.
  • Anatomical variations in coronary artery origins and distributions can impact myocardial perfusion and diagnostic interpretation.
  • Understanding these variations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of ischemic heart disease.

Observation:

  • A 75-year-old male presented with acute chest pain and ECG findings indicative of myocardial infarction.
  • Cardiac catheterization revealed a 99% occlusion in the proximal left anterior descending (LAD) artery.
  • A unique anatomical finding was the LAD artery wrapping around the apex to supply the territory typically supplied by the posterior descending artery (PDA).

Findings:

  • The patient underwent successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention with a drug-eluting stent to the occluded LAD artery.
  • The coronary angiogram demonstrated an anomalous LAD artery coursing over the apex and continuing as the PDA.
  • A normally arising but small right coronary artery was also noted, highlighting a rare coronary anatomy.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of recognizing rare coronary artery anomalies during percutaneous coronary intervention.
  • Accurate identification of anomalous coronary anatomy can prevent procedural complications and optimize treatment strategies.
  • Further case reports on such variations can enhance the collective understanding and management of complex coronary artery disease.

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