Recurring ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction With No-Reflow Caused by Hypercoagulable State: A Behcet Disease Case

Ahmed Hegazi Abdelsamie1, Nayef Al-Asiri1

  • 1Cardiac Center, Mouwasat Hospital Al-Jubail Industrial City, Jubail, Saudi Arabia.

Insights

Young adults experiencing acute myocardial infarction (AMI) may have undiagnosed Behcet disease (BD). Early BD diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing cardiac complications and preventing recurrent events.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Rheumatology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in young patients presents unique challenges due to potential long-term health and social impacts.
  • Behcet disease (BD) is a rare multisystem autoimmune disorder where cardiac involvement, though uncommon, can manifest as a primary symptom.

Observation:

  • A 33-year-old male smoker with no prior medical history presented with acute inferior myocardial infarction.
  • Coronary angiography revealed extensive thrombosis in the right coronary artery, necessitating primary stenting and subsequent interventions due to acute stent thrombosis.

Findings:

  • The patient's history of recurrent oral and genital ulcers, coupled with a positive HLA-B51 allele, indicated a strong association with Behcet disease.
  • Arterial thrombosis in this young adult was attributed to a hypercoagulable state secondary to an early manifestation of Behcet disease.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering Behcet disease in young adults presenting with arterial thrombosis and myocardial infarction.
  • Increased awareness and timely diagnosis of cardiac manifestations in Behcet disease are vital for reducing morbidity and mortality.
  • Therapeutic strategies involving corticosteroids and colchicine may prove beneficial in managing cardiac complications associated with Behcet disease.

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