[Myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA): indications for additional investigations and
Tobias Pustjens1,2, Arnoud W J van 't Hof1, Timo Lenderink1
1Zuyderland Medisch Centrum, afd. Cardiologie, Heerlen.
Insights
Myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) requires further investigation to identify underlying causes. Utilizing diagnostic tools like cardiac MRI and provocation tests aids in accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment for MINOCA patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Internal Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) presents a diagnostic challenge due to diverse underlying etiologies.
- Potential causes span coronary, myocardial, and non-cardiac disorders, necessitating a systematic diagnostic approach.
Observation:
- Case studies highlight the importance of advanced investigations in elucidating MINOCA mechanisms.
- Diagnostic tools including LV angiography, intracoronary acetylcholine provocation tests, and cardiac MRI are valuable.
Findings:
- These investigations aid in differentiating between various causes of MINOCA.
- Tailoring treatment based on the identified underlying mechanism is crucial for effective patient management.
Implications:
- Implementing a structured diagnostic algorithm can improve the clinical management of MINOCA.
- Accurate diagnosis of MINOCA leads to optimized therapeutic strategies and potentially better patient outcomes.
Abstract:
Myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) has multiple potential underlying causes which can be subdivided into coronary, myocardial and non-cardiac disorders. On the basis of three case descriptions, we show that additional investigations are crucial in determining the underlying mechanism and starting suitable treatment. Depending on clinical presentation, risk factors and medical history, an LV angiogram, a provocation test with intracoronary acetylcholine and a cardiac MRI can contribute to finding the correct diagnosis. We further present a diagnostic algorithm to guide the clinician in the management of patients presenting with MINOCA.
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