Diagnosis and management of spontaneous coronary artery dissection: Two cases and a review of the literature

Introduction and importance: Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare but potentially fatal condition, often underdiagnosed despite its significance in acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The true prevalence remains uncertain due to diagnostic challenges. Identifying SCAD cases is crucial for reducing mortality and morbidity, especially considering the recurrence risk. The authors present two cases highlighting the importance of multimodality imaging in diagnosing and managing SCAD. Case presentation: Case 1: A 53-year-old man with a history of brain aneurysm presented with chest pain and shortness of breath. Despite negative EKGs and stress tests, coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) revealed non-obstructive dissection flaps. Medical management improved his condition.Case 2: A 55-year-old woman with no significant medical history experienced recurrent chest pain. Initial tests were negative, but CCTA revealed SCAD. Further screening uncovered undiagnosed fibromuscular dysplasia. Clinical discussion: SCAD poses diagnostic challenges, often mimicking other cardiac conditions. Traditional tests may yield negative results, necessitating advanced imaging techniques like CCTA. Recognizing SCAD's association with connective tissue disorders (CTD) is vital for comprehensive patient care. The authors' cases emphasize the importance of a systematic approach to diagnosing chest pain, including noninvasive modalities and considering underlying etiologies. Conclusion: SCAD diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion, especially when traditional cardiac tests are inconclusive. Beyond treatment, patients should undergo further evaluation for CTDs, particularly in those with minimal risk factors for atherosclerosis. Increased awareness and a multimodal diagnostic approach are crucial for timely intervention and improved outcomes in SCAD patients. Learning objectives: The authors aim to increase awareness regarding different clinical presentations of SCAD to decrease the risk of missed or late diagnosis. The authors' case series also signifies the multimodal imaging approach's role in evaluating chest pain. Upon diagnosis of SCAD, it is imperative to go beyond treatment and implement a reverse algorithmic strategy to discover any underlying causes and risk factors for SCAD predisposition.