Early Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Patients in a Virtual Multicenter Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection...

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Psychology

Background:

• Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a cause of acute coronary syndrome often linked to stress.
• The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on SCAD patients remains largely unknown.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for managing SCAD patients during public health crises.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with a history of SCAD.
• To assess the prevalence of COVID-19 symptoms, cardiac complications, and psychological distress in this cohort.
• To identify correlations between pandemic-related stressors and psychological outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional cohort study surveyed participants from the Mayo Clinic "Virtual" Multicenter SCAD Registry.
• Surveys were administered between June 2, 2021, and September 29, 2021.
• Standardized questionnaires assessed COVID-19 history, anxiety (GAD-7), depression (PHQ-9), and stress levels.

Main Results:

• Of 1352 participants, 727 completed the survey; 96.7% were female, mean age 54.9 years.
• Early in the pandemic, COVID-19 symptoms (12.6%), hospitalizations (<1%), and cardiac complications (<1%) were uncommon.
• Moderate anxiety (14%) and depressive symptoms (11.8%) were reported. Stress and anxiety correlated with job/income loss and job changes.
• Over half (54%) reported monthly chest pain, associated with anxiety and depressive symptoms.

Conclusions:

• COVID-19 symptoms and cardiac complications were infrequent among SCAD patients early in the pandemic.
• While psychological distress was generally mild, pandemic-related stressors significantly impacted stress and anxiety levels.
• The high prevalence of chest pain, linked to psychological symptoms, underscores the need for integrated clinical care for SCAD patients.