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Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD)

A cause of acute coronary syndrome in which the coronary artery wall tears spontaneously, mainly seen in younger women.

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 Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD)?

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a distinct entity in which a spontaneous intimal tear or intramural hematoma in the coronary artery wall causes acute coronary syndrome. It occurs mainly in women under 50, during the peripartum period and in patients with fibromuscular dysplasia.

Diagnosis is made by coronary angiography, and intravascular imaging (IVUS/OCT) helps confirm the lesion. Most cases heal spontaneously with conservative therapy, so PCI is reserved for ongoing ischemia or hemodynamic instability.

SCAD management requires conservative observation, decisions about antiplatelet, beta-blocker and statin therapy and neurovascular screening for fibromuscular dysplasia. Pregnancy counseling and psychological support are also important components.

Symptoms

Sudden chest pain
Pain radiating to arm or jaw
Cold diaphoresis
Dyspnea
Palpitations
Syncope
Nausea

Risk Factors

Female sex, age under 50
Peripartum period
Fibromuscular dysplasia
Connective tissue disease
Systemic inflammatory disease
Intense emotional or physical stress
Migraine and depression

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Chest pain at a young age
  • Peripartum chest pain
  • Pain with syncope
  • Dyspnea
  • Worsening chronic chest discomfort
  • Recurrence in known SCAD

Treatment Methods

01
Conservative observation in most patients
02
Antiplatelet therapy
03
Beta-blocker
04
Statin when atherosclerosis is present
05
Selective PCI
06
Neurovascular FMD screening
07
Pregnancy and psychological counseling

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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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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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.