Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: an Overview

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a non-inflammatory, non-atherosclerotic cause of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) that, by definition, is not iatrogenic or due to trauma. It is a condition that predominantly affects pre- or perimenopausal women without the traditional risk factors for cardiovascular disease.Purpose of ReviewIn this review, we will discuss the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of this condition, with an emphasis on the ongoing research needed to better understand how to care for patients with SCAD.Recent FindingsThere is a paucity of data related to this condition. However, an American Heart Association consensus statement has recently been released that provides helpful insight. There has also been better characterization of pregnancy-associated SCAD.SummaryWe have learned much about SCAD over the last decade and greatly increased the identification of this condition by first responders and physicians through research and patient advocacy. However, there is much we still do not know about this condition, and further research, using larger numbers of patients, is greatly needed to better understand this condition.