Wellens' syndrome: a life-saving diagnosis

Cardiovasc J Afr. 2019;30(4):e1-e3. doi: 10.5830/CVJA-2019-010. Epub 2019 May 24.

Abstract

Wellens' syndrome is a relatively common clinical entity; however, it is often missed, especially in young patients. Without prompt diagnosis and aggressive intervention, patients with Wellens' syndrome may rapidly go on to develop extensive anterior wall myocardial infarction and possibly sudden death. In this case report, we present a 33-year-old male patient with atypical chest pain, and discuss the significance of a prompt recognition of Wellens' syndrome.

Keywords: ECG; Wellens' syndrome; electrocardiogram; medical education; young patient.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Angina Pectoris / diagnosis
  • Angina Pectoris / etiology*
  • Coronary Angiography
  • Coronary Artery Disease / complications
  • Coronary Artery Disease / diagnosis*
  • Coronary Artery Disease / therapy
  • Coronary Stenosis / complications
  • Coronary Stenosis / diagnosis*
  • Coronary Stenosis / therapy
  • Death, Sudden, Cardiac / etiology
  • Death, Sudden, Cardiac / prevention & control
  • Drug-Eluting Stents
  • Early Diagnosis
  • Electrocardiography*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Percutaneous Coronary Intervention / instrumentation
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Treatment Outcome