Acute myocardial infarction. Prognostic value of white blood cell count and blood glucose level

JAMA
|July 21, 1975
PubMed

Insights

Higher hospital mortality was observed in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients with leukocytosis or high blood glucose. Combining these markers may help identify high-risk AMI patients for immediate coronary care unit admission.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Internal Medicine
  • Biomarkers

Background:

  • Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a leading cause of mortality worldwide.
  • Identifying high-risk patients early is crucial for improving outcomes.
  • Existing risk stratification methods may not fully capture all high-risk individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between leukocytosis, elevated blood glucose, and hospital mortality in first-time AMI patients.
  • To evaluate the potential of combining these two biomarkers for risk assessment and patient disposition.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of data from a nationwide study of patients experiencing their first AMI.
  • Comparison of hospital mortality rates based on the presence or absence of leukocytosis and elevated blood glucose levels.

Main Results:

  • Patients with leukocytosis or elevated blood glucose, or both, exhibited significantly higher hospital mortality rates.
  • The combined presence of both markers indicated a particularly high risk of in-hospital death.

Conclusions:

  • Leukocytosis and elevated blood glucose are significant indicators of increased hospital mortality in first AMI.
  • The combination of these simple measurements can serve as a practical diagnostic tool for AMI risk stratification.
  • This combined indicator may guide immediate patient disposition to a coronary care unit for optimal management.

Related Concept Videos

Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System I: Cardiac Biomarkers01:20

Blood Studies for Cardiovascular System I: Cardiac Biomarkers

Cardiac biomarkers are enzymes, proteins, and hormones released into the blood when cardiac cells are injured. They are powerful tools for triaging.
The essential diagnostic tools for detecting myocardial necrosis and monitoring individuals suspected of having acute coronary syndrome (ACS) include:
Troponins
Troponins, particularly cardiac troponins I and T, are the most precise and sensitive markers of myocardial injury. They are detectable within 4-6 hours of myocardial injury and remain...
Myocarditis I: Introduction01:21

Myocarditis I: Introduction

Myocarditis is inflammation of the myocardium, which is the muscular layer of the heart.EtiologyMyocarditis has a diverse etiology, including a wide range of infectious and non-infectious causes:Infectious CausesViral: Common viruses include Coxsackie A and B, adenovirus, parvovirus B19, enteroviruses, and influenza A.Bacterial: Examples include infections caused by Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Mycoplasma species.Rickettsial: Infections like Rocky Mountain spotted fever can result in...
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies01:30

Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies

Diagnosing acute coronary syndrome or ACS begins with a thorough patient history. Notable symptoms include central, crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back, along with shortness of breath, sweating (diaphoresis), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations.It is crucial to note any history of cardiac illnesses and assess risk factors, including age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle.During physical examination, vital...
Introduction Cardiac Emergencies01:30

Introduction Cardiac Emergencies

Cardiac emergencies are critical situations involving the heart that require immediate medical intervention to prevent severe complications or death. These emergencies often arise from underlying heart conditions that impair the heart's ability to function correctly.Types of Cardiac EmergenciesThe most common types of cardiac emergencies include Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac arrest, and heart failure.Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)...
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy01:30

Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy01:29

Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM, is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy without ventricular dilation. It is more common in men and is typically diagnosed in young, athletic adults.EtiologyHCM is primarily genetic and is caused by mutations in genes encoding sarcomeric proteins. Researchers have identified over 1400 mutations across at least 11 different genes. Among these, the most frequently occurring mutations are found in the...