Coronary sinus stenosis: an underdiagnosed cause for paediatric exertional chest pain
Saloni A Hegde1, Jeffrey Moore1, William A Suarez1
1Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, OH, USA.
Insights
Undiagnosed coronary sinus obstruction can cause exertional chest pain and sudden death in children. Early diagnosis and management of coronary sinus stenosis or atresia are crucial for preventing adverse outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Congenital Heart Disease
Background:
- Coronary sinus obstruction is a rare but serious condition.
- It can lead to exertional chest pain and sudden death in children.
- Undiagnosed cases pose significant risks.
Observation:
- A case series of three children with exertional angina is presented.
- The children had varying degrees of coronary sinus stenosis or atresia.
- Symptoms were exclusively exercise-induced.
Findings:
- Coronary sinus stenosis/atresia can manifest solely as exertional angina in pediatric patients.
- The study highlights the diverse presentations of this condition.
- Pathophysiology links obstruction to ischemic symptoms during increased cardiac demand.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the importance of considering coronary sinus obstruction in pediatric patients with exertional chest pain.
- Highlights the need for advanced diagnostic imaging and prompt intervention.
- Informs clinical practice for managing congenital coronary anomalies and preventing sudden cardiac death.
Abstract:
Undiagnosed coronary sinus obstruction can be a source of paediatric exertional chest pain and death. We present a case series of three interesting children who developed only exertional angina from various degrees of coronary sinus stenosis or atresia. We discuss the diagnosis and management of each case and the potential pathophysiology involved with their symptoms.
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