Recent trends in the incidence, treatment, and outcomes of patients with STEMI and NSTEMI

Background

Despite the widespread use of electrocardiographic changes to characterize patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction, little is known about recent trends in the incidence rates, treatment, and outcomes of patients admitted for acute myocardial infarction further classified according to the presence of ST-segment elevation. The objectives of this population-based study were to examine recent trends in the incidence and death rates associated with the 2 major types of acute myocardial infarction in residents of a large central Massachusetts metropolitan area.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 5383 residents of the Worcester (MA) metropolitan area hospitalized for either ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI) or non-ST-segment acute myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) between 1997 and 2005 at 11 greater Worcester medical centers.

Results

The incidence rates (per 100,000) of STEMI decreased appreciably (121 to 77), whereas the incidence rates of NSTEMI increased slightly (126 to 132) between 1997 and 2005. Although in-hospital and 30-day case-fatality rates remained stable in both groups, 1-year postdischarge death rates decreased between 1997 and 2005 for patients with STEMI and NSTEMI.

Conclusions

The results of this study demonstrate recent decreases in the magnitude of STEMI, slight increases in the incidence rates of NSTEMI, and decreases in long-term mortality in patients with STEMI and NSTEMI. Our findings suggest that acute myocardial infarction prevention and treatment efforts have resulted in favorable decreases in the frequency of STEMI and death rates from the major types of acute myocardial infarction.     

Detailed comparison of intra-stent conditions 12 months after implantation of everolimus-eluting stents in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction or stable angina pectoris

Background

The differences in lesion morphology between ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and stable angina (SAP) significantly influence chronic intra-stent conditions after first-generation drug-eluting stent implantation. The study aimed to compare the intra-stent conditions 12 months after implantation of a second-generation everolimus-eluting stent (EES) in patients with STEMI or SAP.

Methods and results

We examined the lesion morphology before EES implantation in 53 patients (23 STEMI, 30 SAP) using virtual histology intravascular ultrasound. We maintained dual anti-platelet therapy for 12 months and subsequently analyzed intra-stent conditions using optical coherence tomography and angioscopy. Pre-intervention plaque and necrotic core volume/length, remodeling index, and the incidence of thin-cap fibroatheroma and thrombus were significantly greater in STEMI than in SAP. After 12 months, the median neointimal thickness (117.6 μm vs. 126.0 μm), frequency of uncovered struts (1.2% ± 2.3% vs. 1.0% ± 2.3%), and percentage of stents fully covered with neointima (60.9% vs. 61.1%) were similar between the 2 groups. Meanwhile, the frequency of malapposed struts (0.4% ± 0.6% vs. 0.1% ± 0.4%, p = 0.04) and neointimal unevenness score (1.74 ± 0.21 vs. 1.64 ± 0.16, p = 0.04) were significantly higher in STEMI than in SAP. The neointimal color grade was more xanthochromatic in STEMI than in SAP. However, the differences were not associated with the incidence of clinical events and intra-stent thrombus (21.7% vs. 16.7%, p = 0.89).

Conclusions

Although a small degree of delayed healing still persists with second-generation EES, EES promotes a favorable arterial healing response in patients with STEMI, as well as those with SAP.     

Current characteristics and management of ST elevation and non-ST elevation myocardial infarction in the Tokyo metropolitan area: from the Tokyo CCU network registered cohort

Limited data exists on ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-STEMI (NSTEMI) managed by a well-organized cardiac care network in a metropolitan area. We analyzed the Tokyo CCU network database in 2009–2010. Of 4329 acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients including STEMI (n = 3202) and NSTEMI (n = 1127), percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was performed in 88.8 % of STEMI and 70.4 % of NSTEMI patients. Mean onset-to-door and door-to-balloon times in STEMI patients were shorter than those in NSTEMI patients (167 vs 233 and 60 vs 145 min, respectively, p < 0.001). Coronary artery bypass graft surgery was performed in 4.2 % of STEMI and 11.4 % of NSTEMI patients. In-hospital mortality was significantly higher in STEMI patients than NSTEMI patients (7.7 vs 5.1 %, p < 0.007). Independent correlates of in-hospital mortality were advanced age, low blood pressure, and high Killip classification, statin-treated dyslipidemia and PCI within 24 h were favorable predictors for STEMI. High Killip classification, high heart rate, and hemodialysis were significant predictors of in-hospital mortality, whereas statin-treated dyslipidemia was the only favorable predictor for NSTEMI. In conclusion, patients with MI received PCI frequently (83.5 %) and promptly (door-to-balloon time; 66 min), and had favorable in-hospital prognosis (in-hospital mortality; 7.0 %). In addition to traditional predictors of in-hospital death, statin-treated dyslipidemia was a favorable predictor of in-hospital mortality for STEMI and NSTEMI patients, whereas hemodialysis was the strongest predictor for NSTEMI patients.     

Malaysian National Cardiovascular Disease Database (NCVD) – Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) registry: How are we different?

Objective

The Malaysian NCVD-ACS (National Cardiovascular Disease Database-Acute Coronary Syndrome) registry attempts to determine the incidence and demographic profile of patients with ACS and to identify high risk group among them. It provides a comprehensive view to assess treatment strategies and adherence to existing guidelines for ACS patients; which can help in future development. It also aims to facilitate research using this database.

Methods

The study included patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and unstable angina (UA) admitted to 11 participating sites in Malaysia from 1st January 2006 to 31st December 2006. The data were analyzed in terms of characteristics, clinical presentation, treatment, in-hospital outcome and 30-day outcome.

Results

A total of 3422 patients were enrolled, with male to female ratio of 3:1, mean age of 59 ± 12 years and mean BMI of 25.8 ± 4.4 kg/m². Among total study population, 96% had at least one established cardiovascular risk factor. In STEMI population, 70% received fibrinolytic therapy and 8% proceeded for primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Mean door-to-needle time for fibrinolytic therapy was 103 ± 143 min. Medical management was conducted for 86% of NSTEMI and 91% UA patients, with intervention for 14% and 9% respectively. The overall in-hospital mortality and 30-day mortality were 7% and 8% respectively.

Conclusion

In our NCVD-ACS registry, when compared with other registries, the subjects were much younger at presentation and had higher prevalence of established cardiovascular risk factors, indicating the importance of primary prevention programme. Majority of the patients were managed medically, with low rates of cardiac interventions, the factor being driven largely by availability of resources. Mean door-to-needle time was much higher than the recommended guidelines, an issue that needs attention. The results indicate many opportunities for improvement of in-hospital and 30-day mortality.     

Left circumflex artery-related myocardial infarction: Does ST elevation matter? Results from the Euro Heart Survey PCI registry

Background/objectives

Little is known about angiographic and clinical differences in patients presenting with left circumflex artery (LCX)-related ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). We sought to determine the clinical significance of ST elevations in patients with LCX-related myocardial infarction.

Methods and results

Between 2005 and 2008 10,503 consecutive patients with acute STEMI and NSTEMI undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were prospectively enrolled into the Euro Heart Survey PCI-Registry. For the present analysis patients with LCX-related STEMI (n = 1100, 54.7%) were compared to those with LCX-related NSTEMI (n = 910, 45.3%). NSTEMI-patients were older, more often female and had a higher incidence of prior cardiac events. Patients with STEMI more frequently presented with shock (8.0 versus 3.9%, P < 0.001) or had been resuscitated (8.5 versus 2.7%, P < 0.0001). TIMI 0–1 before PCI was much more often found among those with STEMI (58.2 versus 25.1%, P < 0.0001). In the univariate analysis there were no significant differences in hospital mortality (STEMI: 4.8%, NSTEMI: 3.5%, P = 0.17), however after adjustment for age, female gender, diabetes and chronic renal failure hospital mortality was significantly higher in STEMI patients (odds ratio 1.71, 95%-CI 1.08–2.72, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Over 50% of the patients with LCX-related myocardial infarction treated with PCI had ST elevations in the initial electrocardiogram. STEMIs were more often associated with total vessel occlusions or haemodynamic instability. In-hospital mortality was significantly higher in patients with LCX-related STEMI.     

Association between plasmin activation system and intravascular ultrasound signs of plaque instability in patients with unstable angina and non-st-segment elevation myocardial infarction

Background

The association between intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) signs of plaque instability and plasma levels of biomarkers was determined in patients with unstable angina and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (UA/NSTEMI).

Methods

Fifty-two patients underwent coronary angiography and IVUS 8 ± 5 hours after the onset of chest pain. IVUS analysis included plaque morphology, disruption, thrombi and eccentricity, lumen, external elastic membrane, and plaque plus media areas of culprit lesion and reference segments and arterial remodeling. Plasma levels of the thrombin activation system (thrombin-antithrombin complex [TAT], tissue factor pathway inhibitor [TFPI], and prothrombin fragments 1+2 [F1+2]) and plasmin activation system (tissue and urokinase-type plasminogen activator [t-PA and u-PA], plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 [PAI-1], and D-dimer) were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits before angiography.

Results

Elevated levels of TAT (7.2 ± 6.0 μg/L), F1+2 (1.8 ± 1.0 nmol/L), TFPI (179.1 ± 131.0 ng/mL), PAI-1 (95.4 ± 54.6 ng/mL), t-PA (10.6 ± 8.8 ng/mL), and u-PA (2.6 ± 0.9 ng/mL) were found in patients with UA/NSTEMI. The serum levels of D-dimer (40.0 ± 39.5 ng/mL) remained in reference range. Expansive and constrictive remodeling were found in 18 (35%) and 12 (23%) patients, respectively. Expansive remodeling of the culprit lesion was associated with significantly higher plasma levels of PAI-1 (121.6 ± 55.0 vs 87.7 ± 61.5 and 77.4 ± 42.8 ng/ml, P = .039), and u-PA (3.0 ± 1.2 vs 2.2 ± 0.5 and 2.5 ± 0.7 ng/mL, P = .026) as compared with constrictive and neutral remodeling. Increased plasma levels of u-PA were associated with plaque rupture (3.0 ± 0.7 vs 2.5 ± 0.9 ng/mL, P = .062). Plasma levels of PAI-1 and u-PA correlated positively with plaque plus media (P = .0297 and P = .0093) and external elastic membrane areas (P = .010 and P = .0002).

Conclusions

Elevated levels of biomarkers of plasmin activation system are associated with signs of plaque instability of culprit lesion in UA/NSTEMI and might therefore serve as non-invasive determinants of the population that is at high risk for subsequent adverse events.     

Validation of the Killip-Kimball Classification and Late Mortality after Acute Myocardial Infarction

Background

The classification or index of heart failure severity in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) was proposed by Killip and Kimball aiming at assessing the risk of in-hospital death and the potential benefit of specific management of care provided in Coronary Care Units (CCU) during the decade of 60.

Objective

To validate the risk stratification of Killip classification in the long-term mortality and compare the prognostic value in patients with non-ST-segment elevation MI (NSTEMI) relative to patients with ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI), in the era of reperfusion and modern antithrombotic therapies.

Methods

We evaluated 1906 patients with documented AMI and admitted to the CCU, from 1995 to 2011, with a mean follow-up of 05 years to assess total mortality. Kaplan-Meier (KM) curves were developed for comparison between survival distributions according to Killip class and NSTEMI versus STEMI. Cox proportional regression models were developed to determine the independent association between Killip class and mortality, with sensitivity analyses based on type of AMI. Results: The proportions of deaths and the KM survival distributions were significantly different across Killip class >1 (p <0.001) and with a similar pattern between patients with NSTEMI and STEMI. Cox models identified the Killip classification as a significant, sustained, consistent predictor and independent of relevant covariables (Wald χ2 16.5 [p = 0.001], NSTEMI) and (Wald χ2 11.9 [p = 0.008], STEMI).

Conclusion

The Killip and Kimball classification performs relevant prognostic role in mortality at mean follow-up of 05 years post-AMI, with a similar pattern between NSTEMI and STEMI patients.     

New Electrocardiographic Criteria to Differentiate Acute Pericarditis and Myocardial Infarction

Objective

Transmural myocardial ischemia induces changes in QRS complex and QT interval duration but, theoretically, these changes might not occur in acute pericarditis provided that the injury is not transmural. This study aims to assess whether QRS and QT duration permit distinguishing acute pericarditis and acute transmural myocardial ischemia.

Methods

Clinical records and 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) at ×2 magnification were analyzed in 79 patients with acute pericarditis and in 71 with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Results

ECG leads with maximal ST-segment elevation showed longer QRS complex and shorter QT interval than leads with isoelectric ST segment in patients with STEMI (QRS: 85.9 ± 13.6 ms vs 81.3 ± 10.4 ms, P = .01; QT: 364.4 ± 38.6 vs 370.9 ± 37.0 ms, P = .04), but not in patients with pericarditis (QRS: 81.5 ± 12.5 ms vs 81.0 ± 7.9 ms, P = .69; QT: 347.9 ± 32.4 vs 347.3 ± 35.1 ms, P = .83). QT interval dispersion among the 12-ECG leads was greater in STEMI than in patients with pericarditis (69.8 ± 20.8 ms vs 50.6 ± 20.2 ms, P <.001). The diagnostic yield of classical ECG criteria (PR deviation and J point level in lead aVR and the number of leads with ST-segment elevation, ST-segment depression, and PR-segment depression) increased significantly (P = .012) when the QRS and QT changes were added to the diagnostic algorithm.

Conclusions

Patients with acute STEMI, but not those with acute pericarditis, show prolongation of QRS complex and shortening of QT interval in ECG leads with ST-segment elevation. These new findings may improve the differential diagnostic yield of the classical ECG criteria.     

Differences in Monocyte Subsets and Monocyte-Platelet Aggregates in Acute Myocardial Infarction—PreliminaryResults

Background

Monocyte-platelet interaction may favor the development of a proatherogenic monocyte phenotype. It is still uncertain which of the 3 monocyte subpopulations interact with platelets to form monocyte-platelet aggregates (MPAs) in acute myocardial infarctions. The aim of our study was to evaluate the monocyte subsets, the percentage of MPAs and the involvement of monocyte subsets in MPA formation among patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and compared to patients with stable angina (SA).

Elevated admission microalbuminuria predicts poor myocardial blood flow and 6-month mortality in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention

Background:

Microalbuminuria (MA) is considered a major risk factor predisposing to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicated by MA have been well described. However, data regarding admission MA and coronary and myocardial flow are scant. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effects of admission MA on coronary blood flow and prognosis in ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients undergoing primary PCI.

Hypothesis:

Did elevated admission microalbuminuria predict poor myocardial blood flow and 6‐month mortality in ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention?

Methods:

A total of 247 patients undergoing primary PCI for STEMI within 12 hours after symptom onset were studied. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to admission urinary albumin extraction rate (UAER): (1) an MA group (UAER 20–200 µg/min), and (2) a normoalbuminuria (NA) group (UAER < 20 µg/min).

Results:

Microalbuminuria was observed in 108 patients. Univariate analyses showed statistical differences between the NA and MA groups in serum creatine level, plasma glucose level, and peak creatine kinase level on presentation. Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) flow grades (TFGs) 0–2 in the MA group were more frequent (9.4% vs 21.2%, P < 0.05) than in the NA group, and corrected TIMI frame count was higher (23.9 ± 18.5 vs 29.8 ± 23.5, P < 0.05). Admission MA was an independent predictor of poor myocardial perfusion (adjusted relative risk: 3.14, 95% confidence interval: 0.99–6.78) and a higher rate of 6‐month mortality in STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI (adjusted relative risk: 1.58, 95% confidence interval: 0.74–3.39).

Conclusions:

Admission MA levels are associated with impaired myocardial flow and poor prognosis in STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. The authors have no funding, financial relationships, or conflicts of interest to disclose.

     

Reactive protein,plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 （PAI-1） levels,PAI-1 promoter 4G/5G polymorphism and acute myocardial infarction

Objective To investigate the relationship between CRP, plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 （PAI-1） levels, PAI-1 gene promoter 4G/5G polymorphism and the type of acute myocardial infarction （ST elevation myocardial infarction, STEMI vs the non-ST elevation Myocardial infarction, NSTEMI）. Methods One hundred seventy-six consecutive patients with AMI were included for the study, of whom 60 had STEMI and 56 had NSTEMI, and 60 adults without cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease were selected as controls. Blood samples were obtained from patients within 6 h of AMI and the plasma PAI-1, CRP, and the gene polymorphism were measured. Results Plasma levels of PAI- 1 and CRP were higher in AMI groups, compared those in the control group, and plasma levels of PAI-1 were significantly higher in patients with STEMI compared to those with NSTEMI （80.12ng/ml VS.73.01ng/ml, P 〈0.01）, while CRP levels were not significantly different between patient with STEMI and NSTEMI （3.87 ± 0.79 mg/ml VS.4.01 ±0.69mg/ml, P〉0.05）. PAI-1 levels presented a significant correlation with CRP levels in the NSTEMI subjects. However, PAI-1 and CRP levels could explain the lack of a significant relationship between them in control and STEMI subjects.The frequencies of 4G/4G genotype in the AMI group were higher than those in the control group and higher in patient with STEMI than in patient with NSTEMI. Plasma levels of PAI-1 in subjects with 4G/4G genotype were significantly increased as compared to those in subjects with 4G/5G and 5G/5G genotype. Conclusions Plasma PAI-1 levels were associated with different myocardial infarction type, and PAI-1 promoter 4G/5G polymorphisms and CRP may be related to plasma PAI-1 levels     

Prevalence of acute cardiac disorders in patients with suspected ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and non-significant coronary artery disease

Background and purpose

We aimed to study the prevalence of acute cardiac disorders in patients with suspected ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-significant coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

From January to October 2012 we consecutively included patients admitted with suspected STEMI and non-significant CAD (coronary artery stenosis diameter < 50%). Patients were diagnosed with acute cardiac disorder in the presence of elevated cardiac biomarkers (troponin T > 50 ng/l or creatine kinase MB > 4 μg/l) or dynamic ECG changes (ST-segment changes or T-wave inversion).

Results

Of the 871 patients admitted with suspected STEMI, 11% (n = 95) had non-significant CAD. Of these, 67% (n = 64) had elevated cardiac biomarkers or dynamic ECG changes and were accordingly diagnosed with acute cardiac disorders. In the remaining 33% (n = 31) of patients, cardiac biomarkers were normal and ECG changes remained stationary.

Conclusions

Acute cardiac disorders were diagnosed in two thirds of patients with suspected STEMI and non-significant CAD.     

Effect of ischemic postconditioning on microvascular obstruction in reperfused myocardial infarction. Results of a randomized study in patients and of an experimental model in swine

Background

Ischemic postconditioning (PCON) appears as a potentially beneficial tool in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We evaluated the effect of PCON on microvascular obstruction (MVO) in STEMI patients and in an experimental swine model.

Methods

A prospective randomized study in patients and an experimental study in swine were carried out in two university hospitals in Spain. 101 consecutive STEMI patients were randomized to undergo primary angioplasty followed by PCON or primary angioplasty alone (non-PCON). Using late gadolinium enhancement cardiovascular magnetic resonance, infarct size and MVO were quantified (% of left ventricular mass). In swine, using an angioplasty balloon-induced anterior STEMI model, MVO was defined as the % of area at risk without thioflavin-S staining.

Results

In patients, PCON (n = 49) in comparison with non-PCON (n = 52) did not significantly reduce MVO (0 [0–1.02]% vs. 0 [0–2.1]% p = 0.2) or IS (18 ± 13% vs. 21 ± 14%, p = 0.2). MVO (> 1 segment in the 17-segment model) occurred in 12/49 (25%) PCON and in 18/52 (35%) non-PCON patients, p = 0.3. No significant differences were observed between PCON and non-PCON patients in left ventricular volumes, ejection fraction or the extent of hemorrhage. In the swine model, MVO occurred in 4/6 (67%) PCON and in 4/6 (67%) non-PCON pigs, p = 0.9. The extent of MVO (10 ± 7% vs. 10 ± 8%, p = 0.9) and infarct size (23 ± 14% vs. 24 ± 10%, p = 0.8) was not reduced in PCON compared with non-PCON pigs.

Conclusions

Ischemic postconditioning does not significantly reduce microvascular obstruction in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.Clinical Trial Registrationhttp://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01898546.     

Warm winter is associated with low incidence of ST elevation myocardial infarctions and less frequent acute coronary angiographies in an alpine country

Background

Weather conditions influence symptoms in chronic stable coronary artery disease (CAD). Whether the ongoing climate change, with continuous and rapid temperature increases, also has an impact on the incidence and outcome of non-ST elevation (NSTEMI) and ST elevation (STEMI) myocardial infarctions referred for acute coronary angiography (CA) is less clear.

Methods

According to weather data from the Institute of Meteorology and Geophysics, Innsbruck University, the 2005/2006 winter was very cold (CW) and the 2006/2007 winter extraordinarily warm (WW). As the overall invasive management of patients with acute coronary syndromes did not change substantially within these winters, we compared patients referred for acute CA suffering an acute STEMI or NSTEMI, their risk factors and in-hospital mortality rates between these two consecutive winters.

Results

As expected, the average temperature was lower (??1.6 vs. +?5.9°C; p?<?0.001) and humidity was higher (82 vs. 79%; p?<?0.012) in CW compared to WW, with no significant differences in other weather conditions (rainfall: 59 vs. 39 days; sunshine: 3.9 vs. 4.3 h/day; air pressure: 713.04 vs. 713.76 hPa). There were no differences in the number of overall CA (987 vs. 983) between these two winters, whereas the number of acute CA (12.9 vs. 10.4% of overall CA; p?=?0.046) and the diagnosis of STEMI as an indication of acute CA (74.0% vs. 62.7%; p?=?0.046) were higher in CW. Furthermore, patients in CW were younger (58.2?±?12.4 vs. 61.7?±?11.7 years; p?<?0.03), had higher LDL cholesterol (134.8?±?44.6 vs. 116.7?±?36.0 mg/dl; p?<?0.003) and were less frequently hypertensives (52.8 vs. 70.6%; p?<?0.01). Other traditional risk factors were not different between WW and CW. In addition, there were no differences in in-hospital mortality rates in invasively diagnosed CAD, patients’ nationalities (Austrians: 78.0 vs. 77.5%) and time from pain to arrival in the cath lab in STEMI patients (3.9?±?3.5 vs. 3.8?±?3.1 h).

Conclusion

The average temperature increase of 7.5°C from the cold to the warm winter was associated with a decrease in acute coronary angiographies, in particular due to a lower incidence of STEMI referred for primary percutaneous intervention.     

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy has a unique cardiac biomarker profile: NT-proBNP/myoglobin and NT-proBNP/troponin T ratios for the differential diagnosis of acute coronary syndromes and stress induced cardiomyopathy

Background

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC) usually is not recognized until heart catheterization reveals typical wall motion abnormalities in the absence of significant coronary artery disease. It was our aim to identify TC by its unique cardiac biomarker profile at an early stage and, preferably, with non-invasive procedures only.

Methods

Ratios of N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and myoglobin, NT-proBNP and troponin T (TnT), NT-proBNP and creatinekinase-MB (CK-MB) were compared in patients with TC (n = 39), patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI, n = 48) and patients with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI, n = 34). Biomarkers were recorded serially at admission and at the three consecutive days. Optimal cut-off values to distinguish TC from STEMI and NSTEMI were calculated with receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

At admission a NT-proBNP (ng/l)/myoglobin (μg/l) ratio of 3.8, distinguished TC from STEMI (sensitivity: 89%, specificity: 90%), while a NT-proBNP (ng/l)/myoglobin (μg/l) ratio of 14 separated well between TC and NSTEMI (sensitivity: 65%, specificity: 90%). Best differentiation of TC and ACS was possible with the ratio of peak levels of NT-proBNP (ng/l)/TnT (μg/l). A cut-off value of NT-proBNP (ng/l)/TnT (μg/l) ratio of 2889, distinguished TC from STEMI (sensitivity: 91%, specificity: 95%), while a NT-proBNP (ng/l)/TnT (μg/l) ratio of 5000 separated well between TC and NSTEMI (sensitivity: 83%, specificity: 95%).

Conclusions

TC goes along with a singular cardiac biomarker profile, which might be useful to identify patients with TC among patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes (ACS).     

Brachial artery flow-mediated dilation in patients with Tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy

Background

Tako-Tsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) is a heart syndrome associated with transient myocardial contractile dysfunction. The pathogenesis of TTC remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in patients with TTC.

Methods

The results of FMD tests of 4 women with TTC were compared with the results from 18 women with ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI) and from 26 healthy female volunteers. FMD tests in all patients were performed within 24 hours of admission and again at 1-3 weeks as a follow-up.

Results

The FMD levels were significantly lower at the acute phase in patients with TTC than in patients with STEMI and in healthy volunteers (P <.01). After 1-3 weeks, the FMD test results of patients with TTC had greatly increased, and no significant differences were found between these results and the results from patients with STEMI (P >.05). Also, there were no significant differences in the FMD test results between the group of patients with TTC and the group of healthy volunteers (P >.05).

Conclusions

There is a pronounced and reversible endothelial dysfunction in patients with TTC, which can impair myocardial perfusion.     

Exploring the effect of weekend admissions to hospital on health outcomes of inpatients with acute myocardial infarction in Shanxi,China: a longitudinal study

Background

Previous studies have identified a so-called weekend effect—ie, higher mortality for inpatients admitted to hospital on a weekend than on a weekday. However, the effect for acute myocardial infarction-related admissions to hospital and other health outcomes are unclear. We therefore aimed to investigate the weekend effect on adverse outcomes in inpatients with acute myocardial infarction in China.

Impact of Non-Infarct-Related Artery Disease on Infarct Size and Outcomes (from the CRISP-AMI Trial)

Background

Non-infarct-related artery (non-IRA) disease is prevalent in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We aimed to assess the impact of non-IRA disease on infarct size and clinical outcomes in patients with acute STEMI.

Methods

The Counterpulsation to Reduce Infarct Size Pre-PCI Acute Myocardial Infarction (CRISP-AMI) trial randomized patients to intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation (IABC) vs no IABC prior to percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with acute STEMI. Infarct size (% left ventricular mass) at 3-5 days post percutaneous coronary intervention and 6-month clinical outcomes were compared between patients with and without non-IRA disease (defined as ≥50% stenosis in at least one non-IRA).

Results

A total of 324 (96.1%) patients had anterior STEMI, of whom 34.9% had non-IRA disease. There was no difference in infarct size (% left ventricular mass) between patients with and without non-IRA disease (median 39% vs 39%; P = .73). At 6 months, there was no difference in rates of recurrent myocardial infarction (0.9% vs 0.9%; P = .78), major Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction bleeding (0.9% vs 0.5%; P = .77), or all-cause death (3.5% vs 2.4%; P = .61) in patients with and without non-IRA disease, respectively. Patients with non-IRA disease had a higher rate of new/worsening heart failure with hospitalization (8.8% vs 1.9%; P = .0050).

Conclusions

More than one-third of patients with anterior STEMI in the CRISP-AMI study had non-IRA disease. These patients had similar infarct sizes and rates of recurrent myocardial infarction, major bleeding, and all-cause death. Patients with non-IRA disease did have a higher rate of new/worsening heart failure with hospitalization. Further study is needed to understand the mechanisms of outcomes of patients with non-IRA disease.     

Osteoprotegerin in ST-elevation myocardial infarction: Prognostic impact and association with markers of myocardial damage by magnetic resonance imaging

Background/Objectives

For osteoprotegerin (OPG), a cytokine of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily, the prognostic impact in stable coronary artery disease and acute coronary syndromes has been shown recently. In acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) data on the correlation to myocardial damage by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) or clinical outcome are lacking.

Methods

We studied 221 consecutive patients with acute STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) within 12 h after symptom onset. Serum levels of OPG were determined from samples collected before PCI (OPG0), at 24 (OPG1) and 48 h (OPG2) after reperfusion. CMR studies for assessment of infarct size, reperfusion injury/microvascular obstruction and myocardial salvage were performed within one week after infarction. Long-term clinical follow-up for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as death, myocardial infarction, or new onset of congestive heart failure, was performed 18.2 (interquartile range of 9.2–21.2) months after the index event.

Results

OPG levels ≥ 75th percentile were associated with significantly larger infarcts, lower myocardial salvage index and greater extent of microvascular obstruction in CMR as compared to OPG levels < 75th percentile. The MACE rate for patients with OPG levels in the highest quartile was also significantly higher. In a multivariable model adjusted for known risk factors, OPG1 as a continuous variable was independently predictive for MACE.

Conclusion

OPG serum levels collected 24 h after infarction are independent predictors of MACE in acute STEMI patients. High OPG levels are associated with a greater extent of myocardial damage and lower myocardial salvage by CMR.     

Baseline characteristics, management practices, and in-hospital outcomes of patients with acute coronary syndromes: Results of the Saudi project for assessment of coronary events (SPACE) registry

Objectives

The Saudi Project for Assessment of Coronary Events (SPACE) registry is the first in Saudi Arabia to study the clinical features, management, and in-hospital outcomes of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients.

Methods

We conducted a prospective registry study in 17 hospitals in Saudi Arabia between December 2005 and December 2007. ACS patients included those with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST elevation myocardial infarction and unstable angina; both were reported collectively as NSTEACS (non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome).

Results

5055 patients were enrolled with mean age ± SD of 58 ± 12.9 years; 77.4% men, 82.4% Saudi nationals; 41.5% had STEMI, and 5.1% arrived at the hospital by ambulance. History of diabetes mellitus was present in 58.1%, hypertension in 55.3%, hyperlipidemia in 41.1%, and 32.8% were current smokers; all these were more common in NSTEACS patients, except for smoking (all P < 0.0001). In-hospital medications were: aspirin (97.7%), clopidogrel (83.7%), beta-blockers (81.6%), angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers (75.1%), and statins (93.3%). Median time from symptom onset to hospital arrival for STEMI patients was 150 min (IQR: 223), 17.5% had primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), 69.1% had thrombolytic therapy, and 14.8% received it at less than 30 min of hospital arrival. In-hospital outcomes included recurrent myocardial infarction (1.5%), recurrent ischemia (12.6%), cardiogenic shock (4.3%), stroke (0.9%), major bleeding (1.3%). In-hospital mortality was 3.0%.

Conclusion

ACS patients in Saudi Arabia present at a younger age, have much higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus, less access to ambulance use, delayed treatment by thrombolytic therapy, and less primary PCI compared with patients in the developed countries. This is the first national ACS registry in our country and it demonstrated knowledge-care gaps that require further improvements.