Spontaneous coronary artery dissection: A rare threat to young women

Abstract

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection not associated with underlying coronary artery disease is rare. When the dissection does occur, it most often is manifested as an acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction in young women. Although the condition can occur in men, most often it involves women who are in their third trimester of pregnancy or the early postpartum period or are engaging in vigorous exercise. Because little is known about spontaneous coronary artery dissection in this population of women, recommendations for treatment are the same as for treatment of acute myocardial infarction associated with atherosclerotic coronary disease. © 2012 American Association of Critical-Care Nurses.