A Rare Case of Vasospasm Presenting with Acute Coronary Syndrome and Leading to Total Occlusion

Tuncay Güzel1

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Health Science University, Gazi Yaşargil Training and Research Hospital, Diyarbakır, Türkiye.

Insights

Coronary vasospasm can cause acute coronary syndrome and cardiac arrest. Prompt intracoronary nitroglycerin administration effectively resolved left anterior descending artery occlusion in a patient experiencing recurrent angina during angiography.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Vascular Medicine

Background:

  • Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) presents with diverse symptoms, including life-threatening arrhythmias.
  • Coronary vasospasm, a transient vasoconstriction, can precipitate myocardial ischemia and ACS.

Observation:

  • A 61-year-old male with ACS and dynamic ECG changes underwent coronary angiography.
  • Initial imaging revealed no critical stenosis, but angina recurred, leading to repeat angiography.
  • Total occlusion of the left anterior descending artery (LAD) due to vasospasm was observed during the procedure.

Findings:

  • Intracoronary nitroglycerin administration rapidly and completely resolved the LAD occlusion.
  • The patient's angina symptoms were relieved following vasospasm resolution.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the potential for acute, severe coronary vasospasm during angiography, even with initially open arteries.
  • Intracoronary nitroglycerin may be a valuable intervention for suspected vasospastic occlusion in patients with recurrent angina, particularly those without traditional risk factors.
  • Early recognition and treatment of vasospastic events during cardiac procedures are crucial for patient outcomes.

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