Myocardial infarction due to giant cell arteritis: a case report and literature review

Kaohsiung J Med Sci. 2007 Apr;23(4):195-8. doi: 10.1016/S1607-551X(09)70397-3.

Abstract

Giant cell arteritis occurs mainly in the cranial arteries, especially in the temporal area, and rarely in the coronary arteries. Here, we present a case of coronary artery giant cell arteritis in a 51-year-old woman who complained of atypical chest pain. Radionuclide angiography showed dilated left ventricle with global hypokinesia. Despite medical treatment, she suffered progressive heart failure and finally was given a heart transplant. The pathologic examination revealed myocardial infarction due to coronary giant cell arteritis. Unusual giant cell arteritis should be considered in the differential diagnoses of myocardial infarction.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Giant Cell Arteritis / complications*
  • Giant Cell Arteritis / diagnosis
  • Heart Transplantation
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Myocardial Infarction / etiology*