NOR-SCAD

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an important cause of myocardial infarction in otherwise healthy, younger people. Most cases occur in women aged 25–55. The reasons why some individuals develop SCAD, and the risk of recurrence remain unclear. Pregnant or recently pregnant women with SCAD represent a particularly high risk group, and the maternal risk in a subsequent pregnancy are not well established.

Illustration showing spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) in a coronary artery.

NOR‑SCAD is a national, multicenter study recruiting both patients with a prior SCAD and patients admitted with acute SCAD. The study focuses on several areas:

Hormones and their influence on SCAD
Pregnancy associated SCAD and maternal risk
Physical activity and exercise
The immune system and inflammatory markers
General cardiovascular risk factors
Carciac complications and mental health

Study overview

Study 1

Retrospective cross‑sectional study (patients with prior SCAD)
Status: Recruitment and data collection ongoing.
Expected results: 2026–2027.

Study 2

Prospective observational study (patients admitted with acute SCAD)
Status: Recruitment and data collection ongoing.
Study period: 2025–2035.

How to register for participation?

Study 1 (prior SCAD): external link, log in with bankID
Study 2 (acute SCAD): external link, log in with bankID

Researchers involved

Anna Sørlie, MD/PhD-fellow, OUS
Project leader and main supervisor: Mette-Elise Estensen, MD/PhD, OUS
Co-supervisor: Kristina Haugaa, MD/Professor, OUS/UiO
Co-supervisor: Nina Eide Hasselberg, MD/PhD, OUS
Eirunn Røtnes, MD/PhD-fellow, OUS

Collaborating centers

Research Institute of Internal Medicine (RIIM), Rikshospitalet — Bente Halvorsen (read more)
Haukeland University Hospital, Dept. of cardiology — Nigussie Bogale
Akershus University Hospital (Ahus), Dept. of cardiology — Oliver Meyerdierks
Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Dept. of cardiology — Tonje Amb Aksnes and Elisabeth Lie
University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Dept. of cardiology — Kristina Fladseth
St. Olav’s Hospital, Dept. of cardiology — Ola Kleveland
Arendal Hospital, Dept. of cardiology — Slobodan Calic
Stavanger University Hospital, Dept. of cardiology
Nigussie Bogale, MD/PhD, Haukeland University Hospital
Oliver Meyerdierks, MD/PhD, Akershus University Hospital