Acute Myocardial Infarction Secondary to Paradoxical Embolism

Patent foramen ovale is a risk factor for systemic embolic events such as cryptogenic stroke. Far less commonly, patent foramen ovale is associated with non-cerebral systemic embolic events. Paradoxical coronary artery embolism is a rare and underdiagnosed cause of acute myocardial infarction. It should be considered in patients presenting with myocardial infarction and an otherwise low-risk profile for atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. We describe a case of paradoxical coronary artery embolism causing ST elevation myocardial infarction. Echocardiography demonstrated patent foramen ovale with a significant shunt. In addition to the treatment of the acute coronary event, patent foramen ovale closure was performed to prevent recurrent paradoxical embolic events.

Coronary artery embolism is an established cause of acute coronary syndrome, but paradoxical coronary artery embolism causing myocardial infarction is rare and requires a high degree of clinical suspicion for diagnosis.Recognition of this condition is important as it has an influence on management and prognosis. A search for venous thrombosis and underlying prothrombotic conditions should be undertaken.Percutaneous device closure of the patent foramen ovale should be considered to prevent future embolic events.