Acute MI. Age-related presentations and treatment options

Geriatrics. 2000 Feb;55(2):32-4, 37-40.

Abstract

At least 60% of all acute myocardial infarctions (AMIs) occur in patients age 65 and older and about one-third in patients older than age 75. The presentation of AMI is modified by age-related changes in endothelial function, smooth muscle cell activity, diastolic function, and responses to circulating catecholamines. Atypical presentations are common in the older patient and require the physician to maintain a high index of suspicion for AMI. ECG findings of ST-segment depression make many older patients ineligible for reperfusion by thrombolytic therapy. Acute and post-MI medical therapies are underused in the older population and should be individualized, based on the presence of comorbid conditions.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • Catecholamines / blood
  • Clinical Protocols
  • Contraindications
  • Diastole
  • Electrocardiography
  • Endothelium, Vascular / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Muscle, Smooth, Vascular / physiopathology
  • Myocardial Infarction / diagnosis*
  • Myocardial Infarction / physiopathology
  • Myocardial Infarction / therapy
  • Patient Care Planning
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Thrombolytic Therapy

Substances

  • Anticoagulants
  • Catecholamines
  • Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors