Adenosine-induced coronary artery spasm: a case report

Med Princ Pract. 2012;21(1):82-5. doi: 10.1159/000331809. Epub 2011 Oct 20.

Abstract

Objective: To describe an uncommon complication of intravenous adenosine administration.

Clinical presentation and intervention: A 41-year-old female patient presented with palpitations due to supraventricular tachycardia. The patient was treated with intravenous adenosine with resolution of the tachycardia. Subsequently, the patient developed chest pain and ST segment elevation in the inferior leads that resolved with sublingual nitroglycerin.

Conclusion: This report showed a case of coronary spasm secondary to the administration of adenosine. We therefore recommend that discretion be exercised when giving adenosine, especially to patients with an underlying tendency for vasospastic reactions.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adenosine / adverse effects*
  • Adult
  • Angina Pectoris / drug therapy
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Calcium Channel Blockers / therapeutic use
  • Chest Pain / chemically induced
  • Coronary Vasospasm / chemically induced*
  • Coronary Vasospasm / diagnostic imaging
  • Coronary Vasospasm / drug therapy
  • Coronary Vessels / drug effects*
  • Diltiazem / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Isosorbide Dinitrate / therapeutic use
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Ultrasonography
  • Vasodilator Agents / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Calcium Channel Blockers
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors
  • Vasodilator Agents
  • Diltiazem
  • Isosorbide Dinitrate
  • Adenosine