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Coronary artery spasm appearing as syncope
Archives of Internal Medicine
|January 1, 1982
Insights
Coronary artery spasm can cause nighttime syncope (fainting). This condition was diagnosed using Holter monitoring and cardiac catheterization, and effectively managed with medications.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Coronary artery spasm is a transient constriction of coronary arteries.
- It can lead to myocardial ischemia and serious cardiac events.
- Syncope, particularly nocturnal syncope, can be an atypical presentation.
Observation:
- A 56-year-old male presented with syncope occurring at night.
- Diagnostic workup revealed evidence of coronary artery spasm.
- Holter monitoring and cardiac catheterization confirmed the diagnosis.
Findings:
- Coronary artery spasm was identified as the cause of the patient's nocturnal syncope.
- The patient responded well to pharmacological treatment.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering coronary artery spasm in patients with unexplained syncope, especially nocturnal episodes.
- Effective management strategies include nitrates and calcium channel blockers.
- Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent adverse cardiovascular outcomes.
Abstract:
A 56-year-old man had coronary artery spasm. The initial manifestation of the disease was syncope that occurred at night. Coronary artery spasm was documented by Holter recording and cardiac catheterization. The patient was effectively treated with nitrates and calcium-blocking agents.