Spontaneous coronary artery dissections and associated predisposing factors: a narrative review

E B N J Janssen; P W de Leeuw; A H E M Maas

doi:10.1007/s12471-019-1235-4

Spontaneous coronary artery dissections and associated predisposing factors: a narrative review

Neth Heart J. 2019 May;27(5):246-251. doi: 10.1007/s12471-019-1235-4.

Authors

E B N J Janssen¹, P W de Leeuw², A H E M Maas³

Affiliations

¹ Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
² Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+), Maastricht, The Netherlands.
³ Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. Angela.Maas@radboudumc.nl.

Abstract

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) represents around 25% of cases of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) in women aged 40-65 years who have few or no traditional cardiovascular risk factors. It is assumed that the incidence is underestimated, as the angiographic appearance of SCAD may often mimic atherosclerosis. This review aims to examine SCAD by focusing on the associated predisposing factors and precipitating stressors in this heterogeneous patient population, as well as the best treatment approach and the prognosis. Progressive knowledge has improved our current understanding of SCAD, but more awareness among clinicians is necessary. Recently, two position papers from the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and the American Heart Association (AHA) have been released, which will be summarised in brief.

Keywords: Acute coronary syndrome; Fibromuscular dysplasia; Myocardial infarction; Spontaneous coronary artery dissection; Women.

Publication types

Review