Single coronary artery diagnosed in the perinatal period: A case report

Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol. 2023 Jul;62(4):562-565. doi: 10.1016/j.tjog.2022.10.011.

Abstract

Objective: Having a single coronary artery (SCA) is a rare congenital anomaly in which a single artery arises from the aorta. Although most cases of SCA are asymptomatic and incidental, its effects during the perinatal period remain unknown. Herein, we report a case of pregnant woman with suspected SCA, based on transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) findings.

Case report: A 33-year-old multiparous woman presented with preterm premature rupture of the membrane at 29 weeks gestation. The patient's preoperative electrocardiogram (ECG) showed slight ST changes. TTE showed dilated right coronary artery and hypoplastic left coronary artery. Cesarean section was performed at 30 weeks of gestation due to non-reassuring fetal status. Although poor oxygenation was observed postoperatively, the patient was managed appropriately. She was diagnosed with SCA based on coronary computed tomographic angiography findings one month after delivery.

Conclusion: Pregnant women with SCA require careful perinatal care.

Keywords: Cesarean section; Perinatal care; Pregnancy; Single coronary artery; Transthoracic echocardiography.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cesarean Section
  • Coronary Angiography
  • Coronary Vessel Anomalies* / diagnostic imaging
  • Coronary Vessel Anomalies* / surgery
  • Echocardiography
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Pregnancy