Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
myocardial infarction
Death of heart muscle tissue due to insufficient blood supply, commonly known as a heart attack.
Full Definition
Necrosis of myocardial tissue resulting from prolonged ischemia, typically caused by coronary artery occlusion due to thrombosis, embolism, or severe stenosis. The condition is classified by location (anterior, posterior, inferior) and extent (transmural or subendocardial). Diagnosis relies on clinical presentation, electrocardiographic changes, and elevated cardiac biomarkers such as troponin. Pathological examination reveals characteristic zones of necrosis with inflammatory infiltrates and subsequent fibrotic scarring.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviate as 'MI' only after first use in formal documentation.
In Context
- "Autopsy findings confirmed acute myocardial infarction involving the anterior wall of the left ventricle." — Forensic pathology report
- "Serial troponin levels supported the diagnosis of non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction." — Clinical assessment
Also known as
heart attack
cardiac infarction
MI
Don't confuse with
myocardial ischemia
cardiac arrest