Non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction following foam ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy

Abstract

The objective of the study was to describe a very rare complication of foam ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy (FUGS). An unusual case of persisting chest discomfort following FUGS in a 61-year-old woman led to a diagnosis of non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction. The patient was found to have a patent foramen ovale (PFO). The differential diagnoses of paradoxical embolism, gas embolism or vasospasm are discussed, with reference to relevant literature. A hypothesis of post sclerotherapy release of endothelin-1 (in a patient with a known PFO) leading to sustained coronary artery spasm causing sufficient myocardial damage to be reflected in elevated troponin levels is suggested. Any episode of chest tightness or pain following FUGS should be considered as possibly cardiac in origin. Sustained symptoms warrant admission to hospital for troponin monitoring and ECG assessment.