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Serum cortisol response to acute myocardial infarction in the aged
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
|October 1, 1980
Insights
In aged patients with acute myocardial infarction, serum cortisol levels were similar across different age groups. However, elevated cortisol indicated a higher risk of mortality or shock.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Endocrinology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) can trigger a stress response.
- The adrenocortical response in elderly patients with AMI requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the adrenocortical response in aged patients experiencing acute myocardial infarction.
- To correlate serum cortisol levels with patient outcomes, including mortality and shock.
Main Methods:
- Serum cortisol concentrations were measured using radioimmunoassay upon hospital admission.
- Patients were stratified into age groups (over 80 years and under 60 years).
Main Results:
- Mean serum cortisol levels were comparable between elderly (over 80) and younger (under 60) AMI patients.
- Significantly elevated serum cortisol concentrations were observed in patients who died or developed shock.
Conclusions:
- Age alone does not appear to significantly alter baseline serum cortisol levels in AMI patients.
- Elevated serum cortisol is a potential biomarker for adverse outcomes, such as mortality and shock, in aged patients with acute myocardial infarction.
Abstract:
The adrenocortical response to acute myocardial infarction in aged patients was studied by measuring serum cortisol concentration (radioimmunoassay) at the time of hospital admission. The mean serum cortisol level in 9 patients over 80 years old was similar to that in 5 patients less than 60 years old. In all patients who died, or in whom shock developed, the serum cortisol concentration was significantly elevated.