Paradoxical Coronary Embolism as a Cause of Recurrent Myocardial Infarction: A Case Report
1AZ Sint-Maarten, Department of Emergency Medicine, Mechelen, Belgium.
Introduction:
Paradoxical coronary embolism is a rare cause of myocardial infarction.
Case Report:
A 57-year-old man presented with acute chest pain after a recent non-ST elevation myocardial infarction, during which a patent foramen ovale was identified. On readmission, the electrocardiogram showed an inferior ST-elevation myocardial infarction, and angiography revealed a distal thrombotic occlusion in otherwise normal coronary arteries. No venous thromboembolism was found, but thrombophilia testing revealed heterozygous factor V Leiden. He was managed conservatively and underwent successful patent foramen ovale closure.
Conclusion:
This case highlights paradoxical embolism as a diagnostic consideration in acute myocardial infarction without coronary artery disease.
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