Atherosclerosis Vindicated: A Case of Chest Pain Due to Capecitabine-Induced Coronary Artery Spasm

BACKGROUND Capecitabine and other 5-fluorouracil prodrugs are medications widely employed in treating solid tumors, including breast and colorectal cancer. However, they carry a notable risk for cardiotoxicity, including coronary vasospasm, possibly related to their impact on vascular endothelium and smooth muscle. CASE REPORT We present a case of a 45-year-old male with a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor who developed exertional chest pain after starting capecitabine. Initial evaluations in the emergency department, including a 12-lead electrocardiogram and cardiac enzymes, were normal, but suspicion for coronary vasospasm persisted due to the temporal relationship with drug initiation and symptom characteristics. A graded exercise test reproduced his symptoms, accompanied by hyperacute peaked T waves and subsequent ST segment elevations in the inferior leads. Coronary angiography revealed patent coronary arteries, rendering provocative testing unnecessary due to a high clinical suspicion of capecitabine-induced vasospasm. Discontinuing the patient's medication was a more efficient approach than continuing additional cardiac workup while the drug was still administered. After multidisciplinary discussion, capecitabine was discontinued, leading to symptom resolution and a negative repeat graded exercise test. CONCLUSIONS This case underscores the potential for capecitabine to induce coronary artery vasospasm, emphasizing the importance of prompt medication cessation. Patients receiving capecitabine therapy and experiencing chest pain should undergo an evaluation with consideration of capecitabine-induced vasospasm in the differential diagnosis. Prompt recognition and medication cessation are critical to prevent serious cardiovascular complications including death. In our patient, discontinuing capecitabine resolved his symptoms, emphasizing the significance of discontinuing the causative drug and seeking alternative chemotherapy regimens.

What is the meaning of provoked spasm phenotypes by vasoreactivity testing?

Coronary artery epicardial spasm is involved in the pathogenesis of many cardiac disorders. Vasoreactivity testing, such as intracoronary injection of acetylcholine (ACH) or ergonovine (ER), is the gold standard method for the diagnosis of vasospastic angina. Provoked epicardial spasm phenotypes are classified as focal spasm and diffuse spasm. Multiple factors, including sex, ethnicity, and use of coronary vasoactive stimulators, are related to the provoked phenotypes of epicardial spasm. Diffuse-provoked spasm is often observed in females, where focal-provoked spasm is markedly more common in males. ACH provokes more diffuse and distal spasms, whereas ER induces more focal and proximal spasms. Yellow plaque and coronary thrombi are often observed in lesions with focal spasms, and intimal thickness with a sonolucent zone is significantly more common in lesions with focal spasm. Furthermore, clinical outcomes in patients with focal spasm are unsatisfactory compared with those in patients with diffuse spasm. However, the reproducibility and eternality of provoked spasm phenotypes by vasoreactivity testing is uncertain. Coronary atherosclerosis or endothelial damage may affect coronary vasomotor tone. Although coronary artery spasm may persist in the same coronary artery, provoked coronary spasm phenotypes may exhibit a momentary coronary reaction by intracoronary ACH or ER testing.

Omitting 50 μg of intracoronary acetylcholine injection in the left coronary artery during spasm provocation test

BACKGROUND

Although guidelines recommend intracoronary administration of acetylcholine (ACh) with incremental doses of 20, 50, and 100 μg into the left coronary artery (LCA) during spasm provocation test for diagnosing vasospastic angina, 50 μg of ACh rarely induced significant coronary vasospasm when no vasoconstriction was observed with 20 μg of ACh in a previous report. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of omitting 50 μg according to the vasoreactivity by 20 μg of ACh in the LCA.

METHODS

A total of 556 patients undergoing ACh provocation test with 20 μg followed by 50 and/or 100 μg were retrospectively included. Injection of 50 μg of ACh was primarily omitted when vasoconstriction <25 % was observed with 20 μg, which was left to operator's discretion. Adverse events were defined as a composite of ventricular fibrillation, sustained ventricular tachycardia, and cardiogenic shock during ACh test in the LCA.

RESULTS

Positive ACh test in the LCA was observed in 245 (44.1 %) patients. Overall, patients with LCA constriction <25 % by 20 μg of ACh had a lower rate of positive ACh test than their counterpart (24.0 % vs. 88.4 %, p < 0.001). In patients with LCA constriction ≥25 % by 20 μg, the incidence of adverse events was significantly higher than in those with LCA constriction <25 % during the provocation test at doses of 50 and 100 μg (2.3 % vs. 0 %, p = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Omitting 50 μg of ACh in the LCA may be safe and feasible when little vasoconstriction was observed with preceding injection of 20 μg of ACh during spasm provocation test for diagnosing vasospastic angina. However, we believe that 50 μg of ACh should not be omitted when 20 μg of ACh induced LCA constriction ≥25 %.

Safety and potential usefulness of sequential intracoronary acetylcholine and ergonovine administration for spasm provocation testing

BACKGROUND

Although guidelines recommend intracoronary acetylcholine (ACh) and ergonovine (ER) provocation testing for diagnosis of vasospastic angina, the feasibility and safety of sequential (combined) use of both pharmacological agents during the same catheterization session remain unclear.

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we investigated the feasibility and safety of sequential intracoronary ACh and ER administration for coronary spasm provocation testing.

METHODS

The study included 235 patients who showed positive results on ACh and ER provocation testing. Initial intracoronary ACh administration was followed by ER administration for left coronary artery (LCA) spasm provocation testing. Subsequently, the right coronary artery (RCA) was subjected to sequential ACh and ER administration for provocation testing. The primary outcome of the study was the safety of sequential intracoronary ACh and ER provocation testing, which was assessed based on a composite of all-cause death, sustained ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation, and cardiogenic shock.

RESULTS

Even in patients with negative results on sequential intracoronary ACh and ER provocation testing in the LCA and only ACh administration into the RCA, additional administration of ER into the RCA showed a positive provocation test result in 33 of 235 (14.0%) patients; three (1.3%) patients developed adverse effects (cardiogenic shock occurred in all cases) during LCA provocation testing. We observed no deaths attributable to spasm provocation testing.

CONCLUSION

Sequential administration of intracoronary ACh and ER was associated with a relatively low major complication rate and may be safe and potentially useful for diagnosis of vasospastic angina.

Ponatinib-Related Vasospastic Angina

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are essential drugs for chronic myeloid leukemia and Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Cardiovascular or arteriothrombotic adverse events have been reported in patients treated with TKIs. We report 3 cases of Ponatinib-related vasospastic angina, in which prophylactic administration of nitrates or calcium channel blockers was effective.

Refractory hypotension and coronary artery spasm induced by antipsychotic drugs: A challenging case and treatment consideration: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Coronary artery spasms may result from supply-demand mismatch due to hypotension. Norepinephrine is more effective in ameliorating antipsychotic-induced refractory hypotension.

PATIENT CONCERNS

Postoperative difficult-to-correct hypoperfusion occurs in patients with comorbid depression and coronary spasm; the use of norepinephrine and epinephrine for rapidly raising blood pressure needs to be considered.

DIAGNOSES

Electrocardiogram is an auxiliary tool and Digital Substraction Angiography is the gold standard for the diagnosis.

INTERVENTIONS

Surgery and correct choice of raising blood pressure are the main treatment methods.

OUTCOMES

Hypotension induced by the use of antipsychotics after angiography is difficult to correct with dobutamine, and the above scenario is relatively rare in the clinic, where norepinephrine could be a potential therapeutic option.

LESSONS

Based on the lessons learnt from this case, caution must be exercised when dealing with patients on multiple antipsychotics during the perioperative period, while pressor-boosting medications should not be limited to conventional drugs such as dopamine. Norepinephrine may be more effective in dealing with difficult-to-correct hypoperfusion.

Role of polyunsaturated fatty acids in Japanese patients with coronary spastic angina

BACKGROUND

n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease. However, there are few reports of a relationship between n-3 PUFAs and coronary spastic angina (CSA). This study aimed to assess the age-dependent role of serum levels of fatty acid in patients with CSA.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We enrolled 406 patients who underwent ergonovine tolerance test (ETT) during coronary angiography for evaluation of CSA. All ETT-positive subjects were diagnosed as having CSA. We categorized the patients by age and results of ETT as follows: (1) young (age ≤ 65 years) CSA-positive (n = 32), (2) young CSA-negative (n = 134), (3) elderly (age > 66 years) CSA-positive (n = 36), and (4) elderly CSA-negative (n = 204) groups. We evaluated the serum levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), arachidonic acid, and dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid. In the young groups, the serum levels of EPA (64.3 ± 37.7 μg/mL vs. 49.4 ± 28.8 μg/mL, p = 0.015) and DHA (135.7 ± 47.6 μg/mL vs. 117.4 ± 37.6 μg/mL, p = 0.020) were significantly higher in the CSA-positive group than in the CSA-negative group, respectively. However, this was not the case with elderly groups. In the multivariate analysis in young groups, the serum levels of EPA (p = 0.028) and DHA (p = 0.049) were independently associated with the presence of CSA, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested that the higher serum levels of EPA and/or DHA might be involved in the pathophysiology of CSA in the young population but not in the elderly population.

Life-threatening Vasospastic Angina Induced by Carteolol Eye Drops

Vasospastic angina (VSA) can be worsened by oral nonselective beta-blockers. Ophthalmic carteolol eye drops are nonselective beta-blockers and effective against glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Systemic effects of ophthalmic beta-blockers on VSA have not yet been reported. We herein report a case of VSA that developed after a patient started carteolol eye drops for ocular hypertension. Even though benidipine, a calcium channel blocker, was started, a VSA attack with incessant non-sustained ventricular tachycardia occurred. Once the carteolol eyedrops were discontinued, the VSA resolved. This case demonstrates that carteolol eye drops can induce life-threatening VSA.

Refractory cardiac arrest caused by type I Kounis syndrome treated with adrenaline and nicorandil: A case report

RATIONALE

Kounis syndrome is a rare but life-threatening anaphylactic reaction that can lead to acute coronary syndrome and cardiac arrest, and requires prompt diagnosis. Adrenaline, which is used to treat anaphylaxis, may cause coronary vasoconstriction and worsen ischemia, whereas coronary vasodilators may dilate systemic vessels and exacerbate hypotension. Delayed diagnosis of Kounis syndrome and inadequate therapeutic intervention may thus lead to a poor outcome.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 59-year-old man was treated for sepsis due to a liver abscess. Following administration of daptomycin, the patient developed severe anaphylactic shock leading to refractory cardiac arrest. Because conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation was ineffective, extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation was considered as an alternative approach.

DIAGNOSES

On bedside monitoring during cardiopulmonary resuscitation, unexpected ST-segment elevation was found on lead II electrocardiogram. Accordingly, the patient was clinically diagnosed with Kounis syndrome.

INTERVENTIONS

Nicorandil (6 mg/h), a coronary vasodilator with minimal blood pressure effects, was administered along with high doses of vasopressors, including adrenaline 0.2 µg/kg/min.

OUTCOMES

After the initiation of nicorandil administration, the patient achieved return of spontaneous circulation and did not require extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Based on the elevated serum tryptase level, normal creatine kinase-MB range, and lack of stenosis on coronary angiography, the patient was definitively diagnosed with type I (coronary vasospasm) Kounis syndrome. He was subsequently transferred to the referring hospital without neurological sequelae.

LESSONS

If anaphylaxis leads to refractory shock and cardiac arrest, ischemic changes on the electrocardiogram should be investigated to identify underlying Kounis syndrome. In addition to adrenaline, coronary dilators are the definitive treatment. Nicorandil may be a useful treatment option because of its minimal effect on blood pressure.

J wave dynamicity during coronary angiography and intracoronary acetylcholine administration

BACKGROUND

J-waves may be observed during coronary angiography (CAG) or intracoronary acetylcholine (ACh) administration, but their significance is unknown.

METHODS

Forty-nine patients, 59.1 ± 11.5 years old and 59% male, were studied on suspicion of vasospastic angina, and J wave dynamicity was compared between CAG and Ach administration.

RESULTS

Diagnostic (≥0.1 mV) or nondiagnostic (<0.1 mV) J waves in 9 and 3 patients, respectively, were augmented, and J waves were newly observed in 2 patients during CAG and Ach administration. Similar changes in the J-wave amplitude were observed: from 0.10 ± 0.09 mV to 0.20 ± 0.15 mV (p < .002) and from 0.10 ± 0.10 mV to 0.20 ± 0.16 mV (p < .001) during CAG and Ach administration, respectively. J waves were located in the inferior leads and changed only during the right coronary interventions. In the remaining 35 patients, J waves were absent before and during the coronary interventions. Augmentation of J waves was found when the RR interval was shortened in some patients. Injection of anoxic media into the coronary artery might induce a conduction delay from myocardial ischemia that manifests as augmentation or new occurrence of J waves.

CONCLUSIONS

Both CAG and intracoronary Ach administration affected J waves similarly in the same individuals. A myocardial ischemia-induced conduction delay may be responsible for the changes in J waves, but further studies are needed.

Vasospastic Angina: An Immune-related Adverse Event

A 54-year-old Japanese woman was admitted to our ward because of recurrent chest pain at rest for 2 months. She had been treated with nivolumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor for inoperable advanced hypopharyngeal cancer for 21 months. She had no chest pain after cessation of nivolumab treatment. Cardiac catheterization confirmed the presence of vasospastic angina. Benidipine 8 mg was started, and she had no chest pain even after resuming therapy with nivolumab. Vasospastic angina is an adverse effect of nivolumab.

The efficacy and safety of cardio-protective therapy in patients with 5-FU (Fluorouracil)-associated coronary vasospasm

Background

Coronary vasospasm is a known side effect of 5-FU (fluorouracil) therapy. Beyond switching to non-5FU-based chemotherapy, there are no established treatments for 5-FU associated coronary vasospam. Our objective was to assess the safety and efficacy of re-challenge with 5-FU after pre-treatment with calcium channel blockers (CCBs) and long-acting nitrates among patients 5-FU associated coronary vasospasm.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of patients with 5-FU coronary vasospasm at a single academic center. By protocol, those referred to cardio-oncology received pre-treatment with either combination [nitrates and CCBs] or single-agent therapy [nitrates or CCBs]) prior to re-challenge with 5-FU. Our primary outcome was overall survival. Other important outcomes included progression-free survival and safety.

Results

Among 6,606 patients who received 5-FU from January 2001 to Dec 2020, 115 (1.74%) developed coronary vasospasm. Of these 115 patients, 81 patients continued 5-FU therapy, while 34 stopped. Of the 81 who continued, 78 were referred to cardio-oncology and prescribed CCBs and/or nitrates prior to subsequent 5-FU, while the remaining 3 continued 5-FU without cardiac pre-treatment. Of the 78, 56.4% (44/78) received both nitrates and CCBs, 19.2% (15/78) received CCBs alone, and 24.4% (19/78) received nitrates alone. When compared to patients who stopped 5-FU, those who continued 5-FU after pre-treatment (single or combination therapy) had a decreased risk of death (HR 0.42, P = 0.005 [95% CI 0.23–0.77]) and a trend towards decreased cancer progression (HR 0.60, P = 0.08 [95% CI 0.34–1.06]). No patient in the pre-treatment group had a myocardial infarct after re-challenge; however, chest pain (without myocardial infarction) recurred in 19.2% (15/78) among those who received cardiac pre-treatment vs. 66.7% (2/3) among those who did not (P = 0.048). There was no difference in efficacy or the recurrence of vasospasm among patients who received pre-treatment with a single agent (nitrates or CCBs) or combination therapy (14.7% (5/34) vs. 25.0% (11/44), P = 0.26).

Conclusion

Re-challenge after pre-treatment with CCBs and nitrates guided by a cardio-oncology service was safe and allowed continued 5-FU therapy.

Iodinated contrast media induced Kounis syndrome during coronary angiogram: a life-threatening clinical dilemma

Kounis syndrome (KS) is a well-documented hypersensitivity vasospastic reaction induced by a variety of triggers. Clinical presentation ranges from non-specific symptoms such as dizziness and nausea to myocardial infarction. Many cases of KS were reported after the use of iodinated contrast media, mainly during radiological procedures. This report describes the case of a 46-year-old man developing coronary vasospasm and anaphylactic shock at the end of percutaneous coronary intervention. Occurrence of such pathology while performing coronary angiogram is a tricky situation for the invasive cardiologist. It requires recognising a rare syndrome and interrupting the procedure to avoid extra use of contrast media even in presence of severe coronary lesions due to vasospasm. Every interventionalist should be aware of such a presentation to recognise and react promptly when facing a potentially life-threatening clinical dilemma.

Inferior ST-elevation myocardial infarction secondary to coronary artery spasm in a patient on maintenance sirolimus postrenal transplantation

Renal transplantation is the treatment of choice for patients with end-stage renal disease. While transplantation improves the quality of life and reduces the mortality risk for most patients when compared with maintenance dialysis, it introduces significant morbidity associated with induction and maintenance immune suppression. Sirolimus, a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, is frequently used as a second-line maintenance immunosuppressive agent in solid organ transplant recipients. Sirolimus may, however, have adverse vascular effects and has previously been shown to induce endothelial cell dysfunction and impaired nitric oxide production in vitro. Sirolimus-eluting coronary artery stents have been associated with rare reports of severe coronary artery vasospasm; however, systemic sirolimus therapy has not previously been associated with vasospastic complications.

Sex-related Differences in Patients with Positive Coronary Spasm as Identified by Acetylcholine Testing

Objective A pathological acetylcholine (ACh) test was observed at lower ACh doses in females compared with males in European populations. We retrospectively analyzed the sex-related differences in Japanese patients with provoked positive spasm by ACh spasm provocation testing. Methods We performed the ACh spasm provocation tests in 1,854 patients from Jan 1991 until Mar 2019. ACh was injected in incremental doses of 20/50/100/200 μg into the left coronary artery and 20/50/80 μg into the right coronary artery. Positive spasm was defined as >90% stenosis and usual chest pain or ischemic ECG changes. We compared the clinical characteristics, angiographical findings during ACh testing, and clinical outcomes between female and male patients with and without provoked positive spasm. Results Positive provoked spasm was diagnosed in 917 patients including 737 (80.4%) males and 180 (19.6%) females. The incidence of provoked positive spasm in females was significantly lower than that in males (33.5% vs. 56.0%, p<0.001). Female patients with provoked positive spasm tended to be older, have less history of smoking, less provoked spasm in the left circumflex artery, or less focal type spasm than male patients with provoked positive spasm. The incidence of ST elevation during ACh testing in male patients was significantly higher than that in female patients, whereas the frequency of ST depression in females was remarkably higher than that in males. The mean maximum used ACh dose for provoked positive spasm on both coronary arteries in female patients was significantly higher than that in male patients. The observed major complications during ACh testing did not differ substantially between the sexes. In addition, the prognosis in females with provoked positive spasm was not different from males. Conclusion Provoked positive spasm by ACh test was obtained at lower mean maximum ACh doses in males compared with females in Japanese patients.

Symptomatic Long QT Syndrome Coexisting with Asymptomatic Acetylcholine-induced Vasospasm

We herein report a rare case of long QT syndrome (LQTS) coexisting with acetylcholine (Ach)-induced vasospasm. A 31-year-old woman experienced cardiopulmonary arrest during running. LQTS was diagnosed by an electrocardiogram, and the coexistence of Ach-induced vasospam was determined by an Ach provocation test on coronary angiography. Although an implantable cardioverter defibrillator was placed, a beta-blocker was not prescribed for two reasons: first, the patient showed Ach-induced vasospasm alone with no symptoms and no ST change by Ach injection, and second, the use of beta-blockers alone in such patients carries a risk of vasospasm-induced ventricular fibrillation.

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection in association with cabergoline therapy

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare but increasingly recognised cause of acute coronary syndrome. While numerous risk factors are associated with SCAD, one potential cause is coronary artery vasospasm. The use of cabergoline-an ergot derivative and dopamine agonist that may induce vasospasm-has been associated with SCAD in one other case report worldwide. Here, we describe SCAD in a 37-year-old woman on long-term cabergoline therapy with no other cardiac risk factors. Cabergoline-induced SCAD should be considered in patients presenting with an acute coronary syndrome who are treated with this medication.

Comparison of calcium-channel blockers for long-term clinical outcomes in patients with vasospastic angina

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are the most widely prescribed medication for patients with vasospastic angina (VA). However, few studies have compared the prognosis of VA patients who are prescribed different CCBs.

METHODS

We enrolled 2,960 patients who received provocation test prospectively in 11 university hospitals in Korea. We divided 1,586 patients received four major CCBs into two groups: a first generation CCB (diltiazem and nifedipine) group and a second generation CCB (amlodipine and benidipine) group. Primary outcome was time to events of composite of death from any cause, acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and symptomatic arrhythmia during 3-year follow-up. We also compared the effect of each CCB on the control of angina symptoms.

RESULTS

There was no difference of the primary outcome among the two groups with a cumulative incidence rate of 5.4%, 2.9%, and a person-month incidence rate of 2.33 and 1.26, respectively (hazard ratio [HR], 0.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.25 to 1.17; p = 0.120, as reference with the 1st generation CCBs). The incidence of ACS was significantly lower in 2nd generation CCBs group with a person-month incidence rate of 1.66 vs. 0.35 (HR, 0.22; 95% CI, 0.05 to 0.89; p = 0.034). Use of benidipine showed a significant better control of angina symptom compared with diltiazem for 3 years (odds ratio, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.09 to 0.32; p < 0.0001 at 3rd year).

CONCLUSION

The first and second generation CCB groups did not differ in terms of composite outcome occurrence. However, the ACS incidence rate was significantly lower in the users of the 2nd generation CCBs.

Bronchial Asthma and Rest Angina: Is It Safe to Perform Acetylcholine Spasm Provocation Tests in These Patients?

Objective Acetylcholine (ACh) use in patients with bronchial asthma (BA) is contraindicated. We examined the clinical usefulness and safety of ACh spasm provocation tests in rest angina patients with BA. Patients The study subjects were 495 rest angina patients (mean age: 64.4±10.9 years old, male: 81.0%). Organic stenosis was found in 69 patients (13.9%). Methods We investigated 495 rest angina patients who underwent ACh spasm provocation tests. ACh was injected in incremental doses of 20/50/100/200 μg into the left coronary artery and 20/50/80 μg into the right coronary artery. Provoked positive spasm was defined as transient ≥90% luminal narrowing and usual chest pain or ischemic electrocardiogram changes. Results Among 495 rest angina patients, 13 (2.6%) were complicated with BA. Eleven patients with BA were controlled under medications, and two patients had a history of medication for BA. The clinical characteristics were not markedly different between rest angina patients with and without BA. The rate of multi-vessel spasm was markedly higher in patients with BA than that in those without BA. No complications during ACh spasm provocation tests were recognized in rest angina patients with BA, whereas major complications in those without BA were observed in eight patients including two ventricular fibrillations, three non-sustained ventricular tachycardias, and three shocks. We were able to perform all 495 ACh spasm provocation tests without any irreversible complications, while electrical defibrillation was necessary for 2 patients without BA. Conclusion We were able to perform ACh spasm provocation tests in rest angina patients with BA irrespective of the off-label use of ACh.

Vasospastic Angina Diagnosed by the Spasm Provocation Test with the Combined Use of the Acetylcholine and Ergonovine Provocation Tests

The spasm provocation test (SPT) is important for diagnosing vasospastic angina (VSA), and acetylcholine (ACh) is usually used for this test in Japan. However, some patients with VSA have negative SPT results with the use of the standard ACh regimen alone. We herein report two cases in which VSA was diagnosed by the SPT with the combined use of ACh and ergonovine (EM). VSA could not be diagnosed in either case by the SPT using ACh infusions alone. For patients with negative SPT results, cardiologists should consider performing the SPT using a combination of ACh and EM.

Phentermine and Coronary Vasospasm-Induced Myocardial Infarction

Women presenting to the cardiac catheterization laboratory with normal coronary arteries without significant atherosclerotic disease is a common presentation. In such patients, it is important to maintain a wide differential and consider alternate diagnoses. We present two cases of women presenting with chest pain found to have severe coronary vasospasm in the setting of recent initiation of phentermine. Phentermine may have vasospastic proprieties which are important to consider when prescribing to patients.

Impact of Insulin Resistance on Acetylcholine-Induced Coronary Artery Spasm in Non-Diabetic Patients

PURPOSE

Coronary artery spasm (CAS) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are implicated in endothelial dysfunction, and insulin resistance (IR) is a major etiological cause of type 2 DM. However, the association between CAS and IR in non-diabetic individuals has not been elucidated. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of IR on CAS in patients without DM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 330 eligible patients without DM and coronary artery disease who underwent acetylcholine (Ach) provocation test were enrolled in this study. Inclusion criteria included both hemoglobin A1c <6.0% and fasting glucose level <110 mg/dL without type 2 DM. Patients were divided into quartile groups according the level of homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR): 1Q (n=82; HOMA-IR<1.35), 2Q (n=82; 1.35≤HOMA-IR<1.93), 3Q (n=83; 1.93≤HOMA-IR< 2.73), and 4Q (n=83; HOMA-IR≥2.73).

RESULTS

In the present study, the higher HOMA-IR group (3Q and 4Q) was older and had higher body mass index, fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, hemoglobin A1c, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels than the lower HOMA-IR group (1Q). Also, poor IR (3Q and 4Q) was considerably associated with frequent CAS. Compared with Q1, the hazard ratios for Q3 and Q4 were 3.55 (95% CI: 1.79-7.03, p<0.001) and 2.12 (95% CI: 1.07-4.21, p=0.031), respectively, after adjustment of baseline risk confounders. Also, diffuse spasm and accompanying chest pain during Ach test were more strongly associated with IR patients with CAS.

CONCLUSION

HOMA-IR was significantly negatively correlated with reference diameter measured after nitroglycerin and significantly positively correlated with diffuse spasm and chest pain.

Coronary artery spasms due to tyrosine kinase inhibitors used in chronic myeloid leukemia

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have changed the landscape of treatment for patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) leading to a life expectancy comparable to the general population. Side effects commonly encountered during TKI treatment are pleural effusion due to use of dasatinib and vascular side effects due to nilotinib and ponatinib. Coronary artery spasm (CAS), although encountered during treatment with other chemotherapeutic drugs, have to our knowledge never been reported during TKI treatment. Here, we describe two cases of coronary artery spasms which are likely due to TKIs.

Clinical outcome according to spasm type of single coronary artery provoked by intracoronary ergonovine tests in patients without significant organic stenosis

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate clinical implications of single vessel coronary spasm provoked by intracoronary ergonovine provocation test in Korean population.

METHOD

A total of 1248 patients who presented with single vessel coronary artery spasm induced by intracoronary ergonovine provocation test, excluding 1712 with negative spasms, multiple and mixed coronary artery spasms and missing data among 2960 patients in the VA-KOREA (Vasospastic Angina in Korea) registry, were classified into diffuse (n=705) and focal (n=543) groups.

RESULTS

The 24-month incidences of a composite primary endpoints (cardiac death, new-onset arrhythmia, and acute coronary syndrome) were determined. Over a median follow-up of 30months, the composite primary end point occurred more frequently in the focal type patients than in the diffuse type patients (primary endpoint: adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.658; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.272 to 2.162, P<0.001). Especially, unstable angina in ACS components played a major role in this effect (hazard ratio [HR], 2.365; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.100 to 5.087, P=0.028).

CONCLUSION

Focal type of single vessel coronary artery spasm in vasospastic angina (VSA) patients is found to be associated with worse clinical outcomes. It is thought that the effect is stemmed from unstable angina among ACS rather than the other components of primary endpoint. Therefore, focal type of single vessel coronary artery spasm in patients with VSA should be more carefully assessed and managed with appropriate medication.

Recurrent Coronary Artery Spasm Induced by Vasopressors During Two Operations in the Same Patient Under General Anesthesia

Variant angina is caused by coronary artery spasm (CAS) with ST-segment elevation. We herein report a case of recurrent CAS during 2 operations in the same patient. An 80-year-old woman was scheduled to undergo tracheostomy, submandibular dissection, left partial maxillectomy, and coronoidectomy. We administered ephedrine and phenylephrine to manage hypotension during general anesthesia. Immediately after the administration of these drugs, the ST segment elevated. We decided to cease the operation and transport the patient to the department of cardiology. Computed tomography angiography revealed pneumomediastinum. The cardiologists considered that the electrocardiography findings had changed secondary to pneumomediastinum. About 6 weeks later, a second operation was scheduled. We administered ephedrine and phenylephrine to manage hypotension during general anesthesia. Immediately after the administration of these drugs, ST-segment elevation occurred. We discontinued use of these drugs, and the ST-segment elevation did not recur. We considered that the cause of the ST-segment elevation was vasopressor-induced CAS because the vasopressors were administered immediately before the occurrence of CAS. Vasopressors such as ephedrine or phenylephrine are frequently used to manage hypotension during general anesthesia. Therefore, anesthesiologists should consider the occurrence of CAS before using vasopressors and know how to manage CAS well.

Sex-Related Differences in Vasomotor Function in Patients With Angina and Unobstructed Coronary Arteries

BACKGROUND

Coronary vasomotor dysfunction is an important mechanism for angina in patients with unobstructed coronary arteries.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to determine sex differences in the prevalence and clinical presentation of vasomotor dysfunction in a European population and to examine sex differences in the dose of acetylcholine leading to a positive acetylcholine provocation test (ACH test).

METHODS

Between 2007 and 2014, we included 1,379 consecutive patients with stable angina, unobstructed coronaries and ACH test performed for epicardial vasospasm or coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) due to microvascular spasm. The predictive value of sex, risk factors, symptoms, and noninvasive test results was analyzed by means of logistic regression.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 62 years, and 42% were male. There were 813 patients (59%) with a pathological ACH test, 33% for CMD and 26% for epicardial vasospasm. A pathological test was more common in females (70% vs. 43%; p < 0.001). In a multivariable logistic regression model the sex difference was statistically significant with a female-male odds ratio for CMD and epicardial vasospasm of 4.2 (95% confidence interval: 3.1 to 5.5; p < 0.001) and 2.3 (95% confidence interval: 1.7 to 3.1; p < 0.001), respectively. Effort-related symptoms, but neither risk factors nor noninvasive stress tests, contributed to predicting a pathological test. Female patients were more sensitive to acetylcholine with vasomotor dysfunction occurring at lower ACH doses compared with male patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Vasomotor dysfunction is frequent in patients with angina and unobstructed coronaries in a European population. Female patients have a higher prevalence of vasomotor dysfunction (especially CMD) compared with male patients. A pathological ACH test was observed at lower ACH doses in women compared with men.

Myocardial infarction during anaphylaxis in a young healthy male with normal coronary arteries- is epinephrine the culprit?

BACKGROUND

Anaphylaxis is an acute, potentially fatal medical emergency. Myocardial injury or infarction in the setting of an anaphylaxis can be due the anaphylaxis itself, when it is known as Kounis syndrome or it can also be due to the effect of epinephrine treatment. Epinephrine is considered as the cornerstone in management of anaphylaxis. Myocardial infarction secondary to therapeutic doses of adrenaline is a rare occurrence and only a few cases have been reported in literature. The mechanism of myocardial injury was considered to be due to coronary vasospasm secondary to epinephrine as the coronary angiograms were normal on these occasions.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 21-year- old previously healthy male got admitted to the local hospital with an urticarial rash and difficulty in breathing, one hour after ingestion of prawns for which he was known to be allergic. He was treated with 0.5 ml of intramuscular adrenaline (1:1000) which was administered to the lateral side of the thigh, following which he developed palpitations and tightening type central chest pain. Electrocardiogram showed ST segment depressions in leads III, aVF and V1 to V5 and he was transferred to a tertiary care hospital. The second electrocardiogram, done 2 h later, showed resolution of ST segment depressions but new T inversions in leads I and aVL. Troponin I was elevated with a titer of 2.15 ng/ml. He was treated with sublingual GTN in the emergency treatment unit and the symptoms resolved. Transthoracic 2D echocardiogram and stress testing with treadmill was normal and CT coronary angiogram revealed normal coronary arteries.

CONCLUSION

Here we present a case of a young healthy adult with no significant risk factors for coronary artery disease who developed myocardial infarction following intramuscular administration of therapeutic dose of adrenalin for an anaphylactic reaction. The postulated mechanism is most likely an alpha receptor mediated coronary vascular spasm. However the use of adrenaline in the setting of life threatening anaphylaxis is life saving and the benefits far outweigh the risks of adverse effects. Therefore the purpose of reporting this case is not to discourage the use of adrenaline in anaphylaxis but to make aware of this potential adverse effect which can occur in the acute setting.

Cocaine-Induced Microvascular Dysfunction and its Reversal by Administration of Intracoronary Calcium-Channel Blocker

A 47-year-old male smoker with recent cocaine use presented with 6 hours of chest pain unrelieved by sublingual and intravenous nitroglycerin. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case demonstrating the efficacy of an intracoronary calcium-channel blocker to ameliorate cocaine-induced microvascular spasm.

Severe Coronary Artery Spasm with Anaphylactoid Shock Caused by Contrast Medium

This study reports 2 cases of severe coronary artery spasm with anaphylactoid shock caused by contrast medium. The first patient had anaphylactoid shock in response to contrast medium and severe coronary spasms of both the left anterior descending coronary artery and the left circumflex coronary artery. The patient developed ventricular arrhythmia and complete atrioventricular block following the severe coronary spasm. The second patient had a totally occluded right coronary artery, owing to a spasm after anaphylactoid shock. Anaphylactoid shock should always be considered when persistent shock is noted after the coronary artery spasm has been relieved.

Provocation of Coronary Vasospastic Angina Using an Isoproterenol Head-up Tilt Test

The goals of this study were to determine the value of the isoproterenol (ISO) head-up tilt (HUT) test in detecting coronary vasospastic angina and to investigate the possible mechanism responsible for coronary artery spasm. The ISO + HUT test was performed in 16 patients with coronary artery spasm documented by the intracoronary ergonovine provocation test. Patients’ blood pressure and heart rate were measured at baseline, during the ISO + HUT (phase I), and during HUT after discontinuation of ISO (phase II). Patients were categorized as test-positive if they developed angina with ST-segment elevation during testing. Eight patients (50%) were test-positive (5 in phase I and 3 in phase II). Between the test-positive and test-negative groups, no significant differences were noted in the changes in blood pressure throughout the test. However, there were significant differences in the changes in heart rate from supine to 2 minutes after HUT under ISO infusion (-17 ±22 vs 11 ±25 beats/minute; p=0.035). In those patients with a positive result in the phase I stage, the heart rate decreased initially after tilt-up, and then significantly increased later (from 85 ±16 to 110 ±27 beats/minute; p=0.043), when coronary vasospasm occurred. In those patients with a positive result in the phase II stage, coronary vasospasm occurred immediately after HUT, when there was an insignificant transient increase in heart rate from the supine to the HUT position (from 85 ±12 to 92 ±11 beats/minute; p=0.109). The ISO + HUT test can provoke coronary vasospasm with ST-segment elevation in 50% of the patients with coronary artery spasm, when combined with an extensional protocol of HUT after discontinuation of ISO. This study suggests that the induction of coronary artery spasm during HUT testing is associated with a rapid elevation of sympathetic activity during augmented parasympathetic activity.

Coronary Spastic Angina Induced after Oral Desmopressin (DDAVP) Administration

A 60-year-old man was prescribed oral desmopressin (1-deamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin acetate trihydrate; DDAVP) for nocturnal polyuria. One week after starting to take desmopressin, he frequently felt chest pain while resting. Coronary angiography revealed no organic stenosis; however, an acetylcholine provocation test showed severe coronary spasm with ST elevation. He was diagnosed with coronary spastic angina, and we stopped the oral desmopressin and added diltiazem. While DDAVP should dilate the coronary vessels in healthy subjects, it may provoke coronary vasospasm in patients with endothelial dysfunction. We should be careful to avoid triggering coronary spasm when administering DDAVP to patients that may have potential endothelial dysfunction.

[Dobutamine-related coronary spasm among patients with false positive dobutamine stress echocardiography: Prevalence and predictors]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) is being consistently used as an exercise-independent stress modality aimed at the detection of coronary artery disease (CAD) and the evaluation of myocardial ischemia. It may though occasionally induce coronary vasospasm. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence and predictors of dobutamine-related coronary spasm in patients without known CAD and false positive DSE (positive DSE but no significant coronary lesions on angiogram).

METHODS

Three thousand nine hundred and fifty-two patients referred to our echocardiography laboratory for DSE between January 2010 and May 2012 were prospectively investigated. Those with positive DSE underwent coronary angiograms with systematic methylergometrine intracoronary injection in case of absence of significant coronary stenosis or spontaneous occlusive coronary spasm. Patients with spontaneous occlusive coronary spasm or positive methylergometrine test but no significant stenoses were enrolled and compared with those with positive DSE but no coronary lesions nor spontaneous or induced spasm ("true" false positive DSE).

RESULTS

Twenty-nine patients with DSE-related vasospasm (19.4% of positive DES without known CAD) were compared with 56 patients with no lesions and no spasm ("true" false positive DSE). They were more frequently smokers (72.4% vs 37.5%; P=0.003); they had more frequently dyslipidemia (79.3% vs 43%; P=0.001); they also had a larger ischemic area at peak DSE (3.4 segments vs 2.7 segments; P=0.05). On multivariate analysis, dyslipidemia (HR=10.7; 95% CI=[2.7-42.1]; P=0.001) and active smoking (HR=6.1; 95% CI=[1.7-21.1]; P=0.004) were found to be independent predictors of spasm-related DSE rather than "true" false positive DSE.

CONCLUSION

DSE-related coronary spasm is present in a significant proportion of patients with erroneously labelled "false" positive DSE and should systematically be ruled out. Dyslipidemia and active smoking were independent predictors of spasm rather than "true" false positive DSE.

[A Case of Repetitive Cardiac Arrest due to Coronary Vasospasm after Sugammadex Administration]

A 58-year-old man with no history of cardiac disease was scheduled for a cerebral aneurysm clipping surgery. Anesthesia was administered with propofol, rocuronium, fentanyl, and remifentanil. At the end of the surgery, extubation was performed 3 min after the administration of 200 mg sugammadex, along with a simultaneous blood-pressure decrease with ST elevation on lead II. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was per- formed owing to the occurrence of lethal arrhythmia, and the patient was successfully resuscitated. Subsequent emergent coronary angiography revealed normal coronary arteries. Twelve days after the first surgery, a tracheostomy was performed owing to persistent disturbance of consciousness. Anesthesia was administered with sevoflurane, fentanyl, and rocuronium. Sugammadex 200 mg was administered after the insertion of a tracheal cannula, and 5 min later, the blood pressure were gradually decreased with ST depression on lead V5. Finally, cardiopulmonary resuscitation was required, and the patient recovered again. An acetylcholine provocation test performed later showed positive results. We suspect sugammadex to be the cause of coronary vasospasm, because the time courses of the two cardiac arrest episodes after sugammadex administration were very similar. Therefore, clinicians should consider sugammadex as one of the causative agents of cardiac arrest in the operating room.

One of six patients with non-ischemic heart disease exhibit provoked coronary spasms: non-ischemic heart disease associated with ischemia?

OBJECTIVE

The majority of cardiologists do not perform spasm provocation tests in patients with non-ischemic heart disease (non-IHD) or non-obstructive coronary artery disease (non-ob-CAD). We herein examined the frequency of provoked spasms in non-IHD and non-ob-CAD patients, including those with atypical chest pain (Aty), valvular heart disease (Val), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), congestive heart failure (CHF), and others (Oth).

METHODS & RESULTS

We performed acetylcholine (ACh) spasm provocation tests over a period of 22 years (1991-2012) among 1,440 patients, including 981 IHD and 459 non-IHD subjects. A total of 43 patients with significant organic stenosis were excluded, and the remaining 416 patients with non-IHD or non-ob-CAD disease were assessed. ACh was injected in incremental doses of 20/50/80 μg into the right coronary artery (RCA) and 20/50/100/(200) μg into the left coronary artery (LCA). Positive coronary spasms were defined as transient luminal narrowing of >99%. Positive coronary spasms were noted in 17.3% of the non-IHDs patients (72/416), compared to 11.4% (15/132), 19% (8/42), 16.7% (5/30), 23.9% (16/67), and 19.3% (28/145), in the patients in the Aty, Val, HCM, CHF, and Oth groups, respectively. The rate of positive provoked spasms was higher in men than women, although not significantly [20.6% (46/223) vs. 13.4% (26/193), ns], and significantly higher in the late period (2001-2012) than in the early period (1991-2000) (36.8% vs. 7.0%, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Physicians should perform spasm provocation tests in patients with IHD as well as non-IHD with non-ob-CAD, as one of six non-IHD patients in this study exhibited provoked coronary spasms.

[Many possible causes of variant angina]

BACKGROUND

Variant angina, or vasospastic angina, is a form of angina caused by vasospasm of the coronary arteries, probably caused by endothelial dysfunction. This form of angina is provoked by non-classical risk factors such as stress, alcohol use, use of sympathomimetics and low environmental temperatures, but also by smoking. Treatment is based on elimination of risk factors and vasodilator therapy with nitrates and long-acting calcium antagonists.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We present a 68-year-old woman with recurring thoracalgia at rest and during exercise, suggestive of severe variant angina in more than one coronary artery. Despite elimination of risk factors and administration of vasodilatory therapy the treatment was initially insufficient. It eventually emerged that the probable cause was frequent use of a vasoconstrictive nasal spray, although this was not described in literature, and not originally mentioned by the patient.

CONCLUSION

A thorough case history is of vital importance in a patient presenting with a history suggestive of variant angina. Even undescribed and apparently less important risk factors can be responsible for persistence of symptoms, and can lead to an applied treatment not producing the desired result.

Diabetes mellitus is not a risk factor for coronary artery spasm as assessed by an intracoronary acetylcholine provocation test: angiographic and clinical characteristics of 986 patients

OBJECTIVES

Both diabetes mellitus (DM) and coronary artery spasm (CAS) are associated with endothelial dysfunction. Thus, a higher incidence of CAS is expected in diabetic patients (pts). We evaluated the impacts of DM and the status of blood sugar control on CAS with intracoronary acetylcholine (ACh) provocation test.

METHODS

A total of 986 pts (106 DM vs 880 non-DM pts) with angiographically normal coronary artery received ACh provocation test. Significant CAS was defined as a transient >90% luminal narrowing with concurrent chest pain and/ or ST-segment changes. HbA1c <7% was considered a controlled blood sugar level.

RESULTS

The incidence of CAS was similar between patients with versus without DM (30.2% vs 23.5%; P=.13). Multivariable analysis showed that DM was not an independent risk factor for significant CAS (odds ratio [OR], 1.29; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.81-2.07; P=.28). The angiographic characteristics of CAS were also similar between these two groups. Subgroup analysis regarding the impact of the status of blood sugar control on CAS showed that the incidence of CAS was similar between diabetic pts with versus without controlled blood sugar levels (35.4% vs 25.9%; P=.29). Multivariable analysis showed that the uncontrolled blood sugar level was not an independent risk factor for CAS (OR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.29-2.13; P=.64).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the expected endothelial dysfunction, DM and the status of blood sugar control are not associated with CAS, suggesting the existence of different mechanisms for CAS and coronary artery disease.

Three cases of vasospastic angina that developed following the initiation of corticosteroid therapy

Three patients diagnosed as having remitting seronegative symmetrical synovitis with pitting edema syndrome, pemphigus erythematosus and idiopathic interstitial pneumonia were treated with oral prednisolone. Several weeks after starting the treatment, they experienced repeated chest pain attacks between midnight and early morning, although none of the patients had a past history of ischemic heart disease. One of the patients exhibited aggravation of symptoms soon after increasing the dose of prednisolone. A definitive diagnosis of vasospastic angina was made using electrocardiograms, coronary angiography and vasospasm provocation tests. These cases emphasize that clinicians should be aware of the possible occurrence of vasospastic angina following the initiation of corticosteroid therapy.

Spasm provocation tests performed under medical therapy: a new approach for treating patients with refractory coronary spastic angina on emergency admission

Objective There are no objective methods for evaluating the severity of vasospasms in patients with refractory coronary spastic angina (R-CSA) under adequate medical therapy. We examined whether spasm provocation tests performed under adequate medication are useful for evaluating the severity of disease in R-CSA patients on emergency admission. Methods and Results We performed spasm provocation tests before and after the administration of medical therapy in eight R-CSA patients, including one ventricular fibrillation survivor (VF-S) and seven patients with unstable angina (UAP) on emergency readmission. We also performed these tests only after medical therapy on urgent admission in four R-CSA patients, including two patients with UAP, one patient with VF-S and one patient with acute coronary syndrome. All 12 R-CSA patients had been medicated with ≥ 2 vasodilator drugs. Positive coronary spasms were defined as >99% transient narrowing. The coronary artery spasms disappeared in three patients under medication, and mitigation of vasospasticity was observed in three patients. In these six cases we continued the same medications. Meanwhile in two patients, we recommended a consultation for psychosomatic medicine. In contrast, the remaining six R-CSA patients exhibited higher levels of vasospasticity, irrespective of the administration of aggressive medical therapy, in which the doses of vasoactive drugs were increased in order to suppress coronary artery spasms. Conclusion In some R-CSA patients on emergency admission, performing spasm provocation tests under medical therapy is useful for determining the subsequent treatment strategy. Therefore, this test may become a new tool in the treatment of R-CSA.