Coronary Anomalies

A coronary abnormality may involve an irregularity with its starting point, course, shape, or branching. Coronary artery anomalies affect less than 1% of the population and are congenital (meaning they are present at birth). They may not be diagnosed until adolescence or adulthood because of a lack of symptoms or because the symptoms are not recognized. Most coronary anomalies have no known causes.

Symptoms of coronary anomalies vary based upon the type of anomaly present. Some are associated with no symptoms at all and are found later in life while others begin in infancy. Chest pain is one of the common symptoms as coronary anomalies result in a decreased blood flow to the heart muscle.

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Diagnosis

A cardiologist will carry out a full medical examination, arrange for an electrocardiogram (ECG), a chest X-ray, an echocardiogram, and possibly blood tests. Other tests, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cardiopulmonary treadmill testing (metabolic cart), transesophageal echocardiogram, and heart catheterization may be performed.

Treatments

The type of treatment will depend on the type of coronary anomaly and can include medications or surgical treatment. Activity limitations may also be prescribed.