Wellens Syndrome: A Case Report

Abstract

Ischemic heart disease is currently the leading isolated cause of death worldwide. The differential diagnosis of chest pain includes cardiac and non-cardiac pathology, and the early identification of acute coronary syndromes (ACS), which manifest as angina, typically lasting longer than 20-30 minutes, of new-onset, is extremely important. For the diagnosis of ACS, it is necessary to perform an electrocardiogram (ECG) and search for myocardial necrosis markers.
We report the case of a 58-year-old man with very high cardiovascular risk, who presented chest pain with characteristics of crescendo angina in a routine appointment, having been referred to the emergency department in the area of residence. Complementary diagnostic tests were performed, which were compatible with Wellens’ syndrome.
In a patient with chest pain, it is essential to exclude ACS, given the potential risk of morbidity and mortality if not diagnosed and treated in time. Thus, it is important to carry out a detailed medical history focusing on pain characteristics, as well as the quick execution and interpretation of the ECG.