REVIEW

Acute myocardial infarction in young adults: causes and management

S Osula¹, G M Bell², R S Hornung¹

¹ Aintree Cardiac Centre, University Hospital Aintree, Liverpool, UK
² Department of Renal Medicine, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, UK

Correspondence to:
Correspondence to:
Dr S Osula, Aintree Cardiac Centre, University Hospital Aintree, Lower Lane, Liverpool L9 7AL, UK;
sergeosula{at}tinyonline.co.uk

The case report in this review illustrates an acute myocardial infarction in a young adult probably due to arterial thrombosis that can be attributed to a hypercoagulable state resulting from the nephrotic syndrome. Although rare, acute myocardial infarction should be considered in young adults presenting with chest pain. A detailed clinical history may help to identify the aetiology, and guide subsequent management, but diagnostic coronary angiography is essential. Careful risk factor modification and treatment of the underlying cause should reduce the incidence of recurrent cardiac events.

Keywords: acute myocardial infarction; young adults; hypercoagulable states; accelerated atherosclerosis

Abbreviations: ECG, electrocardiogram; PTCA, percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty

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