Coronary Vasculitis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Rheumatology
• Immunology

Background:

• Coronary artery vasculitis is a group of diseases characterized by inflammation of the coronary arteries.
• Manifestations range from microvasculature involvement (pericarditis, myocarditis) to large vessel issues (stenosis, aneurysm, dissection, thrombosis).
• Compared to atherosclerosis, coronary artery vasculitis affects younger patients and exhibits more rapid progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a concise overview of coronary artery vasculitis for practicing cardiologists.
• To describe associated clinical entities, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies.
• To highlight the spectrum of coronary artery vasculitis, including recent associations with SARS-CoV-2.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of established and emerging coronary artery vasculitis conditions.
• Synthesis of information on clinical presentations, diagnostic criteria, and treatment modalities.
• Focus on conditions relevant to practicing cardiologists.

Main Results:

• Coronary artery vasculitis includes Kawasaki disease, Takayasu's arteritis, polyarteritis nodosa, ANCA-associated vasculitis, and giant-cell arteritis.
• A Kawasaki-like syndrome associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection is a recent addition.
• Diverse clinical manifestations and varying disease severity are noted.

Conclusions:

• Coronary artery vasculitis requires prompt recognition and management due to its distinct characteristics and potential for rapid progression.
• Understanding the spectrum of associated diseases is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
• This review serves as a practical guide for cardiologists managing patients with coronary artery vasculitis.