Systemic Lupus Erythematosus as a Risk Factor for Coronary Artery Disease

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Rheumatology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a major global health concern, particularly in low-income regions, linked to urbanization and lifestyle changes.
• Coronary artery disease (CAD) risk factors are categorized into traditional (diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, smoking, obesity, family history) and non-traditional (inflammatory diseases like SLE, rheumatoid arthritis, obstructive sleep apnea).

Observation:

• A 41-year-old male businessman presented with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and acute respiratory failure.
• The patient had no identifiable traditional risk factors for myocardial infarction.

Findings:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was identified as the underlying non-traditional risk factor for ACS.
• The patient's condition stabilized with management for both SLE and CAD.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering non-traditional risk factors, such as SLE, in patients presenting with ACS, especially when traditional risk factors are absent.
• Early identification and management of underlying inflammatory conditions like SLE are crucial for preventing and treating cardiovascular events.