Atypical Presentation of Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Vascular Medicine

Background:

• Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an uncommon cause of acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
• SCAD disproportionately affects young women, often without traditional cardiovascular risk factors, and is frequently associated with the peripartum period.
• SCAD can be categorized as atherosclerotic or nonatherosclerotic, with varied management strategies including conservative, percutaneous, or surgical interventions.

Observation:

• This report presents two cases of SCAD admitted to a community hospital emergency department in February 2020.
• The cases involved one male and one female patient.
• Both patients presented with nonspecific symptoms.

Findings:

• The cases highlight the occurrence of SCAD in a community hospital setting.
• The presentation of SCAD can be atypical, even in non-traditional demographics.
• Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for SCAD patients.

Implications:

• These cases underscore the importance of considering SCAD in the differential diagnosis of ACS, regardless of patient demographics or risk factors.
• Community hospitals should be prepared to diagnose and manage SCAD.
• Further research into the diverse presentations and management of SCAD is warranted.