A special case of Wellens' syndrome

J Cardiovasc Dis Res. 2013 Mar;4(1):51-4. doi: 10.1016/j.jcdr.2013.02.016. Epub 2013 Feb 27.

Abstract

Wellens' syndrome is a pattern of electrocardiographic T-wave changes associated with critical stenosis of proximal left anterior descending artery (LAD). T-waves abnormalities were found in precordial leads, especially in V2-V3 during pain-free periods, and ECG obtained during episodes of pain demonstrates upright T-waves with possible elevated or isoelectric ST segments. Early recognition and appropriate intervention carries significant diagnostic and prognostic value. We reported a case of Wellens' syndrome with different etiology and prognosis. Although the ECG showed typical T-wave changes in V2-V5 leads, patient's coronary angiography revealed moderate stenosis in proximal LAD, and coronary artery spasm was suggested. Unlike the classic Wellens' syndrome, which needs aggressive coronary intervention, our patient fared well with conservative medical therapy (diltiazem and nitrates) and showed favorable prognosis.

Keywords: Coronary artery spasm; Electrocardiography; Wellens syndrome.