Current Trends in Cardiology

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Rapid Communication - Current Trends in Cardiology (2023) Volume 7, Issue 12

Myocardial Infarction�pathology, clinical presentation, diagnostics, and types

Ioannis Skalidis*

Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.

*Corresponding Author:
Ioannis Skalidis
Department of Cardiology
University Hospital of Lausanne, Lausanne
Switzerland
E-mail:skaeidis7@gmail.com

Received:25-Nov-2023,Manuscript No. AACC-23-128825; Editor assigned:27-Dec-2023,PreQC No. AACC-23-128825(PQ); Reviewed:11-Dec-2023,QC No. AACC-23-128852; Revised:16-Dec-2023, Manuscript No. AACC-23-128825(R); Published:25-Dec-2023,DOI:10.35841/aacc-7.12.230

Citation:Skalidis I. Myocardial infarction pathology, clinical presentation, diagnostics, and types. Curr Trend Cardiol. 2023;7(12):230.

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Introduction

Myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, is a life-threatening cardiovascular event that claims millions of lives worldwide each year. This condition occurs when the blood supply to a portion of the heart muscle is suddenly interrupted, leading to the death of heart tissue. In this article, we will delve into the pathology, clinical presentation, diagnostics, and types of myocardial infarction, shedding light on the importance of awareness and early intervention in combating this silent killer. To comprehend myocardial infarction, one must first understand its underlying pathology. The heart, like any other organ, requires a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly. This vital nourishment is delivered by the coronary arteries, which encircle the heart and provide blood to its muscle tissue.A myocardial infarction typically occurs when one or more of these coronary arteries becomes obstructed. The obstruction can stem from a blood clot (thrombus) forming within an already narrowed artery, often due to atherosclerosis – a buildup of fatty deposits and cholesterol on the artery walls. Alternatively, it can result from a sudden rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque, triggering the formation of a clot. This blockage prevents adequate blood flow to a specific region of the heart, leading to ischemia (insufficient oxygen supply) and eventual tissue damage. The clinical presentation of myocardial infarction can vary significantly among individuals. Some people experience classic symptoms, while others may have atypical or silent presentations. The hallmark symptoms of a heart attack include.[1,2].

Chest Pain: A severe, crushing, or squeezing pain or discomfort in the chest that may radiate to the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach. This pain typically lasts for more than a few minutes and is not relieved by rest.Many individuals with myocardial infarction experience difficulty breathing, especially when combined with chest pain.Profuse sweating, sometimes described as "clammy" or "cold" sweats, is a common symptom during a heart attack.Some people may feel nauseated or vomit during a heart attack.Feeling dizzy or lightheaded can also occur as blood flow to the brain is compromised. Unusual and extreme fatigue can be an early warning sign in some cases.A sense of impending doom or extreme anxiety may accompany a heart attack [3,4].

It's important to note that the severity and combination of symptoms can vary. Some individuals may only experience mild discomfort, while others may have a sudden, severe onset of symptoms. Additionally, women and elderly individuals may have different or less typical symptoms, such as abdominal pain, fatigue, or shortness of breath, which can lead to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial when a heart attack is suspected. Healthcare professionals use a combination of clinical assessments and diagnostic tests to confirm a myocardial infarction. The key diagnostic tools .Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and can identify characteristic changes indicative of a heart attack. ST-segment elevation or depression is a common finding.Blood Tests: Cardiac-specific biomarkers like troponin and creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) are released into the bloodstream when heart muscle cells are damaged. Elevated levels of these markers in blood tests can confirm a myocardial infarction.[5,6].

 

Coronary Angiography: This procedure involves injecting a contrast dye into the coronary arteries and using X-rays to visualize any blockages or narrowing. It helps guide interventional treatments such as angioplasty and stent placement.A cardiac ultrasound, or echocardiogram, can assess heart function and identify areas of reduced blood flow or damage.These imaging techniques provide detailed views of the heart and can help diagnose and evaluate the extent of a heart attack.Myocardial infarctions can be classified into several types based on their causes and characteristics. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for tailoring treatment strategies. The two primary types. STEMI is characterized by significant ST-segment elevation on the ECG, indicating complete blockage of a coronary artery. Immediate reperfusion therapy, often involving angioplasty and stent placement, is the standard of care to restore blood flow and minimize heart muscle damage.[7,8].

 

 

Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI): NSTEMI occurs when there is partial blockage or temporary reduction in blood flow to the heart. ECG changes in NSTEMI are less pronounced. Treatment for NSTEMI includes medications to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of further complications, as well as assessing the need for invasive procedures like angiography. In addition to these primary types, other classifications may be used to describe myocardial infarctions, such as based on the location of the affected artery or the timing of the event. For instance, an inferior myocardial infarction indicates damage to the inferior wall of the heart, often caused by blockage of the right coronary artery.[

 

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