Anomalous Right Coronary Artery With Interarterial Course Presenting As Exercise-Induced Inferior ST-Elevation
Shan Zaidi1, Ashley M Porter2, Satyajeet Roy3
1Department of Cardiology, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, USA.
Insights
An anomalous right coronary artery (ARCA) is a rare congenital condition where the right coronary artery originates abnormally. Early recognition and management are crucial for preventing myocardial ischemia and sudden cardiac death.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Congenital Heart Disease
- Interventional Cardiology
Background:
- Anomalous right coronary artery (ARCA) is a rare congenital anomaly where the RCA arises from an atypical location, often the left sinus of Valsalva or left main coronary artery.
- This condition can lead to myocardial ischemia, exertional angina, and sudden cardiac death, particularly when the RCA follows an interarterial course.
- ARCA is frequently associated with a stenotic ostium and an acute origin angle, increasing the risk of compression.
Abstract:
An anomalous right coronary artery (ARCA) is a congenital coronary artery condition in which the right coronary artery (RCA) originates from an abnormal position. The most common locations of an ARCA are the left sinus of the Valsalva (LSV) and the left main coronary artery (LMCA). In this case, a 49-year-old male with hyperlipidemia presented with chest pain radiating to both arms and back after a high-intensity exercise program. Electrocardiogram demonstrated an inferior wall ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The patient received thrombolytic therapy and underwent percutaneous coronary intervention on the mid left circumflex artery with initiation of dual antiplatelet therapy. Coronary computed tomography angiography revealed an ARCA origin. The patient was referred to cardiothoracic surgery and subsequently underwent successful coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with discharge in stable condition. ARCA is a rare congenital condition that should be considered in patients with myocardial ischemia or sudden cardiac death. Compression of the RCA between the aorta and pulmonary artery in an interarterial course may cause exertional ischemia and lead to sudden death. Furthermore, ARCA is associated with a stenotic ostium and an acute angle of origin. Management options include: Reimplantation of the RCA, CABG, and unroofing of the intramural segment. Our case emphasizes awareness of ARCA in clinical practice and prompt management.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction
Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
Coronary Circulation
Coronary circulation begins at the base of the aorta, where two main arteries arise—the left and right coronary arteries. These arteries encircle the heart in the coronary sulcus and supply the...
Physiology of the Heart: The Cardiac Cycle
Diastole: The Relaxation Phase
During diastole, all four heart chambers relax. The atrioventricular (AV) valves open, and the semilunar valves close. This phase sees the lowest chamber pressures, promoting ventricular filling. Venous blood enters the heart through the...
Angina III: Clinical Manifestations and Assessment

