Fatal Multi-Vessel Coronary Vasospasm: A Case Report

Hanane Aissaoui1, Mohamed Boutaybi2, Alla Ikbal2

  • 1Cardiology, Mohammed I University/Mohammed VI University Hospital/Epidemiological Laboratory of Clinical Research and Public Health, Oujda, MAR.

Cureus
|June 30, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Coronary artery vasospasm can lead to severe myocardial infarction and cardiac arrest, even after initial successful treatment. This case underscores the critical and sometimes fatal nature of coronary vasospasm.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Vascular Medicine

Background:

  • Acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in a 59-year-old female.
  • History of severe coronary artery vasospasm.

Observation:

  • Initial percutaneous intervention and isosorbide dinitrate successfully reversed vasospasm in major coronary arteries.
  • Patient showed good in-hospital recovery with calcium channel blockers and nitrates.

Findings:

  • One month post-discharge, the patient experienced recurrent chest pain leading to cardiac arrest.
  • Despite cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the outcome was fatal.

Implications:

  • Highlights the potential for recurrent and fatal coronary artery vasospasm.
  • Emphasizes the need for vigilant long-term management of coronary vasospasm.
  • Underscores the unpredictable and severe nature of this cardiovascular condition.

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