Acute left main coronary artery thrombosis as an initial presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus

Kang Un Choi1, Ung Kim1

  • 1Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea.

Insights

Left main coronary artery thrombosis, a rare condition, can be an early sign of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This case highlights the importance of investigating underlying causes for LMCA thrombosis in young patients.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Rheumatology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Left main coronary artery (LMCA) thrombosis is an uncommon cardiovascular emergency.
  • Determining the underlying cause of LMCA thrombosis is crucial, especially in young, otherwise healthy individuals.

Observation:

  • A young male presented with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) due to complete LMCA occlusion.
  • Diagnostic workup revealed hemolytic anemia and positive antinuclear antibodies.

Findings:

  • The patient was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) as the cause of LMCA thrombosis.
  • Systemic thrombosis was identified as the mechanism linking SLE to the coronary event.

Implications:

  • This case underscores SLE as a potential, albeit rare, cause of LMCA thrombosis.
  • Highlights the need for a comprehensive etiological investigation in acute coronary syndromes, particularly in younger demographics.
  • Suggests considering autoimmune disorders in the differential diagnosis of unexplained LMCA thrombosis.

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