Atypical Presentation of Non-dominant Right Coronary Artery Occlusion: Precordial ST-Segment Elevation
1Cardiology, Health Sciences University, Kartal Koşuyolu Heart Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, TUR.
Insights
A rare ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) case showed unusual ECG changes with right coronary artery occlusion. This highlights the need for broader diagnostic considerations beyond typical patterns for STEMI.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) diagnosis typically relies on characteristic electrocardiogram (ECG) patterns.
- Anterior STEMI is usually associated with left anterior descending (LAD) artery occlusion, presenting with precordial ST-segment elevation (STE).
- Right coronary artery (RCA) occlusions classically present with inferior STEMI, affecting leads II, III, and aVF.
Abstract:
This case report details a rare presentation of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in a 46-year-old male, highlighting an unusual electrocardiographic (ECG) pattern where proximal total occlusion of the right coronary artery (RCA) manifested with ST-segment elevation (STE) in both inferior leads (II, III, aVF) and, strikingly, anterior precordial leads (V1-V6). Typically, precordial STE is a hallmark sign of anterior myocardial infarction (MI), commonly linked to occlusion of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery. This patient's ECG initially suggested a widespread myocardial insult, but subsequent coronary angiography definitively pinpointed a complete blockage in the proximal RCA, while the LAD and circumflex arteries were normal. This case should influence diagnostic reasoning by compelling clinicians to consider a wider differential diagnosis for STEMI and to avoid absolute reliance on classic ECG patterns. The diagnostic workup of such unusual cases should include clinical presentations with updated ECG criteria and integrated imaging algorithms such as comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography to ensure accurate diagnosis and timely reperfusion therapy.
More Related Videos
06:39Intracoronary Acetylcholine Provocation Testing for Assessment of Coronary Vasomotor Disorders
Published on: August 18, 2016
13:10Direct Re-implantation of Left Coronary Artery into the Aorta in Adults with Anomalous Origin of Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery ALCAPA
Published on: April 24, 2017
Related Concept Videos
Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
Angina III: Clinical Manifestations and Assessment
Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations
Pericarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
