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Coronary artery aneurysm: A review.
Anthony Georges Matta1, Nabil Yaacoub2, Vanessa Nader1
1Department of Cardiology, Toulouse University Hospital, Rangueil, Toulouse 31400, France.
World Journal of Cardiology
|October 8, 2021
Summary
Coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) are enlargements of heart arteries, often caused by atherosclerosis or Kawasaki disease. This review covers their causes, serious complications, and current management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Medicine
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Coronary artery aneurysm (CAA) is defined as a coronary artery segment exceeding 1.5 times the diameter of the adjacent normal segment.
- Atherosclerosis is the primary cause in adults, while Kawasaki disease is the leading cause in children.
- CAAs are often asymptomatic, detected incidentally, but can lead to fatal complications like rupture or embolization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive, up-to-date systematic review of coronary artery aneurysms.
- To elucidate the pathophysiology, associated complications, and current management strategies for CAAs.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing literature on coronary artery aneurysms.
- Analysis of data regarding pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and treatment outcomes.
- Synthesis of information on medical, interventional, and surgical management approaches.
Main Results:
- Pathophysiological mechanisms involve atherosclerosis, proteolytic imbalance, and inflammatory responses.
- Management is individualized due to scarce and controversial data, with options including medical therapy, covered stent angioplasty, coil insertion, and surgery.
- Fatal complications underscore the importance of understanding CAA progression and treatment.
Conclusions:
- Coronary artery aneurysms represent a significant clinical challenge with potentially severe outcomes.
- Further research is needed to better understand CAA pathophysiology and standardize management protocols.
- An individualized approach, considering patient and aneurysm characteristics, is crucial for effective treatment.
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