An unexpected acute coronary syndrome.
W G van Hougenhouck-Tulleken1, V Ueckermann1
1Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria and Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa.
Summary
Hypocalcaemia can rarely cause acute coronary syndromes due to coronary artery vasospasm. Prompt intravenous calcium administration reversed this ST-elevation myocardial infarction, preventing long-term cardiac damage.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) from coronary artery vasospasm are rare and challenging to diagnose.
- Hypocalcaemia is a frequent clinical issue, typically asymptomatic but capable of causing severe acute symptoms.
Observation:
- We report a case of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) triggered by hypocalcaemia-induced coronary artery vasospasm.
- The patient's condition rapidly improved with intravenous calcium, with no residual cardiac effects.
Findings:
- Hypocalcaemia-induced coronary artery vasospasm can precipitate acute myocardial infarction.
- Intravenous calcium effectively resolves this vasospasm and restores myocardial perfusion.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but reversible cause of ACS.
- Early recognition and treatment of hypocalcaemia are crucial in managing such cardiac events.
- Understanding the pathophysiology may aid in managing similar vasospastic emergencies.
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