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Coronary Artery Ectasia

Abnormal dilation of coronary arteries beyond normal diameters.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Coronary Artery Ectasia?

Coronary artery ectasia is defined as dilation of a coronary artery segment to 1.5 times or more of the adjacent normal segment. It is also known as aneurysmal dilation.

It most often develops on a background of atherosclerosis, but inflammatory causes such as Kawasaki disease, connective tissue disorders and vasculitis can also be responsible. The right coronary artery is the most commonly involved vessel.

Blood flow slows and turbulence develops in dilated segments, predisposing to thrombus formation and distal embolization; this can cause angina, myocardial infarction and sudden death.

Diagnosis is made by coronary angiography; the presence of accompanying atherosclerosis and the degree of dilation determine treatment.

Symptoms

Chest pain at rest or on exertion
Acute coronary syndrome in the setting of thrombus
Palpitations and arrhythmia
Dyspnea
Exercise intolerance
Some patients are completely asymptomatic

Risk Factors

Atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease
History of Kawasaki disease
Connective tissue disorders (Marfan, Ehlers-Danlos)
Vasculitis (polyarteritis nodosa, Takayasu)
Male sex and smoking

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Chest pain and suspected acute coronary syndrome
  • Increasing angina in known ectasia
  • Follow-up of young adults with history of Kawasaki disease

Treatment Methods

01
Antiplatelet therapy (aspirin) and anticoagulation (warfarin when indicated)
02
Statin and cardiovascular risk factor control
03
Standard coronary therapy for coexisting atherosclerosis
04
PCI or thrombolysis in acute thrombotic events
05
Regular angiographic or CT angiographic follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.