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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.
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.
Abstract:
We report a case of a 59-year-old female who experienced a history of an acute ST myocardial infarction. Percutaneous intervention and isosorbide dinitrate perfusion were successful in reversing the severe vasospasm on the left anterior descending, the first diagonal, and posterior interventricular arteries. The patient received calcium channel blockers and nitrates with a good in-hospital clinical evolution. One month later, the patient presented to the ED with chest pain leading to cardiac arrest despite cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This case highlights the fatal outcome of coronary artery vasospasm.
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