The role of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] in the development of atherosclerosis has been recently recognized, and the current recommendation is to measure Lp(a) once in a lifetime in all individuals, in order to identify those at risk for developing an acute coronary syndrome or recurrent events, even in the absence of other cardiovascular risk factors. We present the case of a middle-aged patient with recurrent cardiovascular events, in whom we identified high levels of Lp(a) as a possible explanation of the recurrent events.
Cardiovascular disorders have been described as relevant risk factor for severe COVID infection. Stent thrombosis is a life-threatening complication that may occur subacutely. We present an interesting case of a middle-aged woman who developed acute stent thrombosis while interrupting dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) ticagrelor, during an episode of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). In our case, the patient’s not-compliance to DAPT, associated with COVID-19 infection and a hyperinflammatory and hypercoagulable state associated with it played a major role in the development of stent thrombosis. The hypercoagulable and hyperinflammatory state associated with COVID-19 has important implications for cardiac patients, especially those undergoing complex coronary intervention, predisposing them to an increased risk of post-PCI complications.
In acute coronary syndromes, timely revascularization of the obstructed artery is crucial. In young patients, acute myocardial infarction can have a very severe evolution and is frequently associated with cardiogenic shock. We present the case of a 36-year-old male patient, smoker with no other apparent risk factors for coronary artery disease, who suffered a cardiac arrest while playing tennis. Emergency coronary angiography revealed acute occlusion of the left anterior descendent artery, which was promptly revascularized. The patient had a good clinical evolution and was discharged after six days. The case underlines the importance of a well-functioning emergency system and STEMI network, able to provide life-saving therapy in a timely manner.
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