Coronary Artery Dissection: A Spontaneous Phenomena in Postpartum Period

Abstract

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare but life-threatening cause of acute coronary artery syndrome. Although, SCAD may be attributed to underlying medical illness such as connective tissue disease, vasculitis or atherosclerosis, its occurrence in young healthy females is an uncommon phenomenon. Pregnant females, particularly in their peripartum or post-partum periods are affected the most. The etiology remains unclear but certain factors such as hemodynamic and hormonal changes during pregnancy have thought to play a significant role. Spontaneous coronary artery dissection has a very high mortality rate and physicians should be vigilant when an otherwise young healthy female presents with symptoms of acute coronary syndrome.

A Rare Multi-vessel Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection Case Requiring Balloon Intervention

“…The exact cause of SCAD is not well understood, and it can occur in individuals without typical risk factors for heart disease. However, some factors that may be associated with SCAD include hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy or postpartum [4], connective tissue disorders, such as fibromuscular dysplasia or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and certain genetic factors [5].…”