Acute Myocardial Infarction Secondary to Paradoxical Embolism
  • Abdullah R Alenezi
    Department of Cardiology, Chest Diseases Hospital, Kuwait City, Kuwait
  • Muath Alanbaei
    Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
  • Islam Abouelenein
    Department of Cardiology, Chest Diseases Hospital, Kuwait City, Kuwait

Keywords

Coronary artery, embolism, myocardial infarction, paradoxical embolism

Abstract

Patent foramen ovale is a risk factor for systemic embolic events such as cryptogenic stroke. Far less commonly, patent foramen ovale is associated with non-cerebral systemic embolic events. Paradoxical coronary artery embolism is a rare and underdiagnosed cause of acute myocardial infarction. It should be considered in patients presenting with myocardial infarction and an otherwise low-risk profile for atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. We describe a case of paradoxical coronary artery embolism causing ST elevation myocardial infarction. Echocardiography demonstrated patent foramen ovale with a significant shunt. In addition to the treatment of the acute coronary event, patent foramen ovale closure was performed to prevent recurrent paradoxical embolic events.

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    Published: 2020-10-05
    Issue: 2020: Vol 7 No 12 (view)


    How to cite:
    1.
    Alenezi AR, Alanbaei M, Abouelenein I. Acute Myocardial Infarction Secondary to Paradoxical Embolism. EJCRIM 2020;7 doi:10.12890/2020_001951.