[Plasminogen activators as thrombolytic agents in myocardial infarction]

Administration of thrombolytic agents can determine recanalization of thrombosed coronary arteries. Apparently, the earlier reperfusion is performed the better the prognosis of myocardial infarction. Streptokinase was administered to 117 patients with myocardial infarction at the "Instituto do Coração da Universidade de São Paulo" and angiographic patency of the vessel was restored in as many as 87% of them. New thrombolytic agents, such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), single chain urokinase-type Plasminogen Activator (scuPA) and Anisoylated Plasminogen Streptokinase Activator Complex (APSAC) have been evaluated in clinical trials. Recent advances in thrombolytic therapy and comparative aspects of the various agents currently available are reviewed.