Powered by OpenAIRE graph
Found an issue? Give us feedback
image/svg+xml art designer at PLoS, modified by Wikipedia users Nina, Beao, JakobVoss, and AnonMoos Open Access logo, converted into svg, designed by PLoS. This version with transparent background. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Open_Access_logo_PLoS_white.svg art designer at PLoS, modified by Wikipedia users Nina, Beao, JakobVoss, and AnonMoos http://www.plos.org/ ZENODOarrow_drop_down
image/svg+xml art designer at PLoS, modified by Wikipedia users Nina, Beao, JakobVoss, and AnonMoos Open Access logo, converted into svg, designed by PLoS. This version with transparent background. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Open_Access_logo_PLoS_white.svg art designer at PLoS, modified by Wikipedia users Nina, Beao, JakobVoss, and AnonMoos http://www.plos.org/
ZENODO
Article . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: ZENODO
ZENODO
Article . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Article . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
versions View all 2 versions
addClaim

Contemporary Understanding and Importance of Coronary Artery Ectasia: A Narrative Review

Authors: Aşkın, Lütfü;

Contemporary Understanding and Importance of Coronary Artery Ectasia: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Coronary artery ectasia (CAE) is a rare but clinically important vascular abnormality defined by localized or diffuse dilation of a coronary artery segment to at least 1.5 times the diameter of adjacent normal vessels. The prevalence and clinical impact of CAE vary widely by geography and ethnicity, with higher rates seen in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian populations. While over half of cases are associated with atherosclerosis, congenital anomalies, connective tissue disorders, vasculitis, and trauma represent important non-atherosclerotic etiologies. Recent insights into chronic inflammation, extracellular matrix degradation, genetic predisposition, and epigenetic alterations have expanded the understanding of CAE pathogenesis. Although many patients remain asymptomatic, CAE can present with angina, myocardial infarction, or even sudden cardiac death. Diagnostic advances, such as coronary computed tomography angiography and intravascular ultrasound, enable more precise evaluation, but standardized criteria and management guidelines remain lacking. Current management focuses on risk factor modification and antithrombotic therapy, though the optimal regimen is uncertain, and the efficacy of invasive interventions is not well established. Long-term prognosis is highly variable, underscoring the need for region-specific studies, robust clinical trials, and the development of personalized care strategies. Future research priorities include genetic and molecular studies, creation of evidence-based protocols, and the exploration of novel therapeutics to improve outcomes for patients with CAE.

Keywords

Vasculitis, Coronary Aneurysm, Atherosclerosis, Coronary Angiography, Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors

  • BIP!
    Impact byBIP!
    selected citations
    These citations are derived from selected sources.
    This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
    0
    popularity
    This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
    Average
    influence
    This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
    Average
    impulse
    This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
    Average
Powered by OpenAIRE graph
Found an issue? Give us feedback
selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average