Anomalous Coronary Arteries: A Cause for Malignant Arrhythmias

Atif AlQubbany1,2,3, Yazeed Alqurashi4, Amin Zagzoog1,2,3

  • 1Department of Cardiac Sciences, King Faisal Cardiac Center, National Guard Hospital, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, SAU.

Cureus
|June 30, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) can cause sudden cardiac death in young people. Surgical unroofing of an anomalous right coronary artery (ARCA) in a young adult prevented further cardiac events.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Congenital Heart Disease
  • Cardiac Surgery

Background:

  • Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery (AAOCA) is a rare congenital heart defect.
  • AAOCA can lead to myocardial ischemia and sudden cardiac death (SCD), especially in young athletes.
  • Surgical intervention is recommended for symptomatic patients.

Observation:

  • A 24-year-old male presented with syncope, dyspnea, and palpitations.
  • He was diagnosed with anomalous right coronary artery (ARCA) originating from the left coronary sinus.
  • The patient had no prior medical history.

Findings:

  • The patient underwent successful surgical unroofing of the ARCA.
  • This intervention aimed to prevent recurrent ischemia and ventricular arrhythmias.
  • The case underscores the potential severity of coronary artery anomalies.

Implications:

  • Coronary artery anomalies are a critical cause of SCD in young, otherwise healthy individuals.
  • Prompt diagnosis and surgical management of AAOCA are vital.
  • Investigating coronary anomalies is crucial for patients with unexplained cardiac symptoms and arrhythmias.

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