From Dilatation to Occlusion: A STEMI Case in Coronary Artery Ectasia
AISSAM ELMEJJATI *
Cardiology A Department, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Mohammed V University of Rabat, Rabat, Morocco.
Mohamed sersari
Cardiology A Department, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Mohammed V University of Rabat, Rabat, Morocco.
AHMADOU SOUMARE
Cardiology A Department, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Mohammed V University of Rabat, Rabat, Morocco.
PR NADIA FELLAT
Cardiology A Department, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Mohammed V University of Rabat, Rabat, Morocco.
PR ROKYA FELLAT
Cardiology A Department, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Mohammed V University of Rabat, Rabat, Morocco.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Coronary artery ectasia (CAE) is a rare dilation of the coronary arteries, with an incidence of 0.3%–5%. It is most often caused by atherosclerosis and may present with complications such as thrombotic occlusion and acute coronary syndromes (ACS).
Case Summary: We report the case of a 51-year-old male smoker presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) due to thrombosis in an ectatic circumflex artery. Coronary angiography revealed type III CAE with diffuse ectasia and complete thrombotic occlusion of the circumflex artery. The patient was successfully managed with dual antiplatelet therapy, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and high-intensity statins. He recovered without complications.
Conclusion: CAE complicates coronary flow dynamics, increasing the risk of thrombotic occlusion. Management strategies include antiplatelets, anticoagulants, and risk factor modification. This case emphasizes the importance of coronary angiography in CAE diagnosis and highlights pharmacological strategies tailored to this condition.
Keywords: Coronary artery ectasia ST-elevation, Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) Thrombosis, dual antiplatelet therapy, coronary angiography