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Severe coronary vasospasm associated with hyperthyroidism causing myocardial infarction
N D Masani1, D B Northridge, R J Hall
1Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff.
Insights
Hyperthyroidism can cause coronary vasospasm leading to myocardial infarction. Treating hyperthyroidism resolved coronary artery issues, suggesting a direct link between thyroid status and heart conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Hyperthyroidism is a condition involving an overactive thyroid gland.
- Thyroid hormones significantly impact cardiovascular function.
- Coronary artery disease is a major cause of myocardial infarction.
Abstract:
A 48 year old woman presented with angina after an anterior myocardial infarction and was found to be hyperthyroid. Coronary angiography showed a stenosis of the left coronary os and a long, severe stenosis of the left anterior descending artery which was partially relieved by glyceryl trinitrate. Three months later, after radioactive iodine treatment had rendered her euthyroid, repeat coronary angiography showed entirely normal coronary arteries. This unusual case establishes an association between hyperthyroidism and coronary vasospasm resulting in myocardial infarction.