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Updated: Aug 16, 2026

Primary Outcome Assessment in a Pig Model of Acute Myocardial Infarction
Published on: October 14, 2016
"Tombstone" anterior ST-segment elevations secondary to acute pericarditis: the role of two-dimensional
1Division of Cardiology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio 78284-7872, USA.
Insights
Prompt thrombolytic therapy is crucial for acute myocardial infarction. However, this case highlights considering alternative causes of ST-segment elevation, like pericarditis, using bedside echocardiography to guide treatment.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Acute myocardial infarction requires timely thrombolytic therapy.
- ST-segment elevation on ECG can indicate ischemia but also other conditions.
- Differentiating causes of ST-segment elevation is critical for appropriate treatment.
Observation:
- A patient presented with anterior ST-segment elevation mimicking acute ischemia.
- Absence of ischemic symptoms prompted further investigation with echocardiography.
Findings:
- Echocardiography revealed mild generalized hypokinesis, not indicative of acute ischemia.
- Subsequent ECGs showed changes consistent with pericarditis, not myocardial infarction.
Implications:
- Bedside echocardiography can aid in differentiating ST-segment elevation causes.
- Accurate diagnosis improves patient management and avoids unnecessary thrombolytic therapy.
Abstract:
Prompt and appropriate administration of thrombolytic therapy is important for patients with acute myocardial infarction. However, in addition to contraindications, alternative causes of ST-segment elevation should be considered before thrombolytic therapy is instituted. A patient with marked ST-segment elevation in the anterior leads suggestive of acute ischemia is presented. Because of lack of ischemic symptoms, an echocardiogram was performed. This showed mild generalized hypokinesis, and thrombolytic therapy was not administered. Subsequent ECGs demonstrated evolutionary findings consistent with pericarditis. In selected patients a two-dimensional echocardiogram, which can be easily performed at patient bedside, will help in appropriate patient management.
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