Small Bowel Perforated Viscus Mimicking Inferior Wall Myocardial Infarction: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Emergency Medicine
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) involves cardiac ischemia, potentially causing myocardial injury or necrosis.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG) is vital for diagnosing ACS, guiding vascular territory assessment and therapy.
• Non-cardiac conditions can present with EKG changes that mimic ACS, risking misdiagnosis.

Observation:

• A 57-year-old female with a history of coronary artery disease (CAD) presented unresponsive and pulseless.
• The patient's condition was secondary to a perforated viscus.
• Initial EKG revealed ST-segment elevations in the inferior leads.

Findings:

• The patient's presentation mimicked ACS due to EKG abnormalities.
• The underlying cause was identified as a perforated viscus, a non-cardiac emergency.
• This case underscores the importance of considering non-cardiac etiologies for EKG changes.

Implications:

• Accurate diagnosis is crucial to avoid inappropriate ACS management.
• Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for non-cardiac causes of ST-segment elevation.
• Broadening the differential diagnosis in critical care settings improves patient outcomes.