Diagnosis of an Acute Anterior Wall Infarction in Dual-Energy CT

Abstract

Due to its high morbidity and mortality, myocardial infarction is the leading cause of death worldwide. Against this background, rapid diagnosis is of immense importance. Especially in case of an atypical course, the correct diagnosis may be delayed and thus lead to increased mortality rates. In this report, we present a complex case of acute coronary syndrome. A triple-rule-out CT examination was performed in dual-energy CT (DECT) mode. While pulmonary artery embolism and aortic dissection could be ruled out with conventional CT series, the presence of anterior wall infarction was only detectable on DECT reconstructions. Subsequently, adequate and rapid therapy was then initiated leading to survival of the patient.

Keywords

• dual-energy CT
• myocardial infarct
• acute chest pain
• cardiovascular diseases
• triple-rule-out
• virtual monoenergetic images