Myocardial Infarction : Suspected Triage

Myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack, represents a critical condition with potentially devastating outcomes. It occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is significantly reduced or completely stopped, leading to the death of heart muscle tissue. This reduction or cessation of blood flow is primarily due to obstruction of the coronary arteries, which can result from a buildup of plaque—a condition known as coronary artery disease. The impact of an MI on a patient's health can vary greatly, from no noticeable symptoms, termed "silent" myocardial infarction, to severe, life-threatening complications such as heart failure, arrhythmias, or sudden death.

The pathophysiology of MI involves the interruption of myocardial oxygen supply due to a thrombotic occlusion of a coronary artery, which has been previously narrowed by atherosclerotic plaque. This leads to ischemia and, if prolonged, to the necrosis of myocardial tissue. The severity of the infarction, its clinical presentation, and the prognosis for the patient depend on the extent and location of the blockage as well as the duration before treatment is initiated.

The diagnosis of myocardial infarction is made based on the clinical presentation, electrocardiographic findings, and biomarker evidence of myocardial injury. According to universally...