Electrocardiographic Abnormalities and Cardiac Disorders

Myocardial Infarction: Pathophysiology, ECG Changes, and Diagnosis

Myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack, occurs due to the blockage of coronary arteries, leading to ischemia and necrosis of heart tissue.

Pathophysiology of Myocardial Infarction

The interruption of blood flow in a coronary artery leads to oxygen deprivation and myocardial tissue death. The severity depends on the location and duration of ischemia.

ECG Changes in Myocardial Infarction

• ST-segment elevation (STEMI) - Indicates acute ischemia.
• Pathological Q waves - Suggest irreversible myocardial damage.
• T-wave inversion - Represents myocardial ischemia or injury.

Diagnosis of Myocardial Infarction

Diagnosis includes clinical evaluation, ECG findings, and biomarkers such as troponins. Prompt intervention improves survival rates.