Effect of randomized prophylactic nitroglycerin on radial artery spasm during transradial catheterization: An analysis based on operator experience.

One limitation to transradial access (TRA) is the occurrence of spasms (RAS), for which the use of prophylactic medications is recommended. Improvement in TRA material combined with the increase in operators' expertise, might mitigate this benefit. We assess the effect of preventive nitroglycerin on RAS during TRA, evaluating the role of the operator's experience. Patients received 500 µg nitroglycerin or placebo. The operator's expertise was classified as: inexperienced (I), intermediate (M), and experienced (E). 2040 patients were included. Prophylactic use of nitroglycerin did not reduce RAS (10.8% vs. 13.4% (placebo), p = 0.07). RAS incidence was 14.5% in I, 12.5% in M, and 9.7% in E (p = 0.01). In group I, nitroglycerin reduced RAS (17.4% vs. 11.1%, p = 0.04), which was not observed in other groups. Overall, nitroglycerin does not prevent RAS, which is more common among inexperienced operators. More experienced operators could abolish preventive nitroglycerin use.

Rationale and design of the TETHYS trial: the effects of methotrexate therapy on myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation.

INTRODUCTION: Methotrexate is a drug that has shown anti-ischemic effects in animal studies and positive results in heart failure clinical trials. METHODS: We will randomly assign 80 patients with acute myocardial infarction to receive methotrexate (0.05 mg/kg bolus followed by 0.05 mg/kg/h for 6 h) or matching placebo. The primary outcome will be the area under the curve (AUC) for creatine kinase (CK) release for 72 h. Secondary outcomes will be the peak levels of CK, CK-MB fraction and troponin I, AUC for CK-MB and troponin I, levels of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) at admission and at 30 days, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) at baseline and at 30 days, death, TIMI (thrombolysis in myocardial infarction) frame count in the culprit artery, Killip score after 72 h and rate of reinfarction at 30 days. RESULTS: We expect a reduction in the AUC for CK, CK-MB and troponin release in the methotrexate group compared to the placebo group. We also expect a reduction in the levels of BNP, hsCRP and ESR and an improvement of LVEF and TIMI frame count in the methotrexate group. CONCLUSION: This trial may be the first to demonstrate the anti-inflammatory and anti-ischemic effects of methotrexate in patients with acute myocardial infarction.

Overview of Percutaneous Coronary Interventions for Chronic Total Occlusions Treated at Brazilian Centers Participating in the LATAM CTO Registry. / Panorama das Intervenções Coronárias Percutâneas em Oclusões Totais Crônicas em Centros Participantes do LATAM CTO Registry no Brasil.

BACKGROUND: Major advances have been seen in techniques and devices for performing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) for chronic total occlusions (CTOs), but there are limited real-world practice data from developing countries. OBJECTIVES: To report clinical and angiographic characteristics, procedural aspects, and clinical outcomes of CTO PCI performed at dedicated centers in Brazil. METHODS: Included patients underwent CTO PCI at centers participating in the LATAM CTO Registry, a Latin American multicenter registry dedicated to prospective collection of these data. Inclusion criteria were procedures performed in Brazil, age 18 years or over, and presence of CTO with PCI attempt. CTO was defined as a 100% lesion in an epicardial coronary artery, known or estimated to have lasted at least 3 months. RESULTS: Data on 1196 CTO PCIs were included. Procedures were performed primarily for angina control (85%) and/or treatment of moderate/severe ischemia (24%). Technical success rate was 84%, being achieved with antegrade wire approaches in 81% of procedures, antegrade dissection and re-entry in 9%, and retrograde approaches in 10%. In-hospital adverse cardiovascular events occurred in 2.3% of cases, with a mortality rate of 0.75%. CONCLUSIONS: CTOs can be treated effectively in Brazil by using PCI, with low complication rates. The scientific and technological development observed in this area in the past decade is reflected in the clinical practice of dedicated Brazilian centers.

FUNDAMENTO: Tem sido observado um grande avanço nas técnicas e nos dispositivos para a realização de intervenções coronárias percutâneas (ICP) em oclusões totais coronarianas crônicas (OTC), mas existem poucos dados da prática do mundo real em países em desenvolvimento. OBJETIVOS: Relatar as características clínicas e angiográficas, os aspectos dos procedimentos e os resultados clínicos da ICP de OTC em centros dedicados a esse procedimento no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Os pacientes incluídos foram submetidos à ICP de OTC em centros participantes do LATAM CTO Registry, um registro multicêntrico latino-americano dedicado à coleta prospectiva desses dados. Os critérios de inclusão foram procedimentos realizados no Brasil, idade acima de 18 anos e presença de OTC com tentativa de ICP. A definição de OTC foi lesão de 100% em uma artéria coronária epicárdica, conhecida ou estimada como tendo pelo menos 3 meses de evolução. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos dados de 1.196 ICPs de OTC. Os procedimentos foram realizados principalmente para controle da angina (85%) e/ou tratamento de uma grande área isquêmica (24%). A taxa de sucesso técnico foi de 84% e foi alcançada com técnicas de fios anterógrados em 81%, dissecção/reentrada anterógrada em 9% e retrógrada em 10% dos procedimentos. Os eventos cardiovasculares adversos intra-hospitalares ocorreram em 2,3% dos casos, sendo a mortalidade de 0,75%. CONCLUSÕES: As OTC podem ser tratadas no Brasil por intervenção coronária percutânea de forma efetiva e com baixas taxas de complicações. O desenvolvimento científico e tecnológico observado nessa área na última década reflete-se na prática clínica de centros brasileiros dedicados a essa técnica.

Evaluation of Ventricular Remodeling and Prognosis in Patients with Aortic Stenosis Who Underwent Surgical or Percutaneous Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement.

INTRODUCTION: Aortic stenosis is the most common heart valve disease in the world, and patients that present with symptoms have a high mortality rate. Aortic valve replacement has the objective of promote left ventricular remodeling, reduce symptoms, and increase overall survival. The objective of this study is to evaluate reverse remodeling of the left ventricle in patients with severe and symptomatic aortic stenosis who underwent surgical or percutaneous transcatheter aortic valve replacement. METHODS: This is a longitudinal, prospective, non-concurrent, non-randomized unicentric study with patients who underwent aortic valve replacement. Echocardiogram was performed before and after replacement procedure to evaluate several remodeling indexes. RESULTS: Of 91 patients, 77 (84.6%) underwent surgical aortic valve replacement, and 14 (15.4%) underwent percutaneous transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Mean age was 68,96±11,98 years, and most patients were male. Remodeling evaluation revealed that patients who decreased left ventricular index mass (53% vs. 38.9%; P=0,019) and those who reduced the mass/volume ratio (30.4% vs. 68.9%; P<0,001) presented with positive left ventricular remodeling. No endpoint difference was found in those with positive remodeling. CONCLUSION: Regarding the left ventricular remodeling in patients with severe and symptomatic aortic valve stenosis who underwent percutaneous transcatheter or surgical valve replacement, there is a positive increment in remodeling, however it remains in concentric hypertrophic shape. Implication of these findings remains uncertain and to be studied in large dedicated trials with clinical endpoints.

Analysis of the Appropriate Use Criteria for Coronary Angiography in Two Cardiology Services of Southern Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Despite its great relevance, there are no studies in our country evaluating the application of the 2012 guidelines for the appropriate use of cardiac diagnostic catheterization. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the adequacy of coronary angiography performed in two hospitals in the southern region of Brazil. METHODS: This is a multicenter cross-sectional study, which analyzed indications, results and proposals for the treatment of 737 coronary angiograms performed in a tertiary hospital with multiple specialties (Hospital A) and a tertiary cardiology hospital (Hospital B). Elective or emergency coronary angiographies were included, except for cases of acute myocardial infarction with ST segment elevation. The level of statistical significance adopted was 5% (p < 0.05). RESULTS: Of the 737 coronary angiograms, 63.9% were performed in male patients. The mean age was 61.6 years. The indication was acute coronary syndrome in 57.1%, and investigation of coronary artery disease in 42.9% of the cases. Regarding appropriation, 80.6% were classified as appropriate, 15.1% occasionally appropriate, and 4.3% rarely appropriate. The proposed treatment was clinical for 62.7%, percutaneous coronary intervention for 24.6%, and myocardial revascularization surgery for 12.7% of the cases. Of the coronary angiographies classified as rarely appropriate, 56.2% were related to non-performance of previous functional tests, and 21.9% showed severe coronary lesions. However, regardless of the outcome of coronary angiography, all patients in this group were indicated for clinical treatment. CONCLUSION: We observed a low number of rarely appropriate coronary angiograms in our sample. The guideline recommendation in these cases was adequate, and no patient required revascularization treatment. Most of these cases are due to non-performance of functional tests.

Efeito da nitroglicerina no espasmo e na oclusão da artéria radial em cateterismos transradiais realizados em mulheres / Effect of nitroglycerin on radial artery spasm and occlusion in transradial catheterizations performed in women

Introdução: O benefício do cateterismo transradial já foi confirmado em pacientes do sexo feminino. Mulheres submetidas a exames por cateterismo transradial apresentam desafios únicos. A ocorrência de espasmo e oclusão da artéria radial após o procedimento é maior em mulheres. Objetivamos avaliar o benefício da nitroglicerina na redução de espasmo e oclusão da artéria radial em mulheres submetidas a cateterismo transradial. Métodos: Estudo multicêntrico, prospectivo, randomizado 2x2 fatorial, duplo-cego. Participantes foram randomizados para nitroglicerina 500mcg ou placebo em dois momentos: após colocação do introdutor hemostático e antes da retirada. A avaliação de espasmo da artéria radial foi clínica, por meio de escala dor. A avaliação da oclusão da artéria radial foi realizada com Doppler, nas primeiras 12 horas. Resultados: Foram incluídos 2.040 pacientes, sendo 774 (37,5%) mulheres. A média de idade foi similar entre os sexos (62,2 anos versus 61,5 anos; p=0,27). A incidência de espasmo da artéria radial foi maior nas mulheres (21,2% versus 6,6%; p<0,01), bem como a incidência de oclusão da artéria radial (3,4% versus 1,8%; p=0,03). O uso da nitroglicerina no início do procedimento não reduziu a incidência de espasmo da artéria radial em mulheres quando comparado com o placebo (19,7% versus 22,6%; p=0,34), tampouco as taxas de oclusão da artéria radial (4,3% versus 2,5%; p=0,17). O uso da nitroglicerina ao fim do procedimento não reduziu a incidência de oclusão da artéria em mulheres (2,8% versus 3,9%; p=0,37). Conclusões: O espasmo e a oclusão da artéria radial são mais frequentes em mulheres submetidas a cateterismo transradial quando comparadas aos homens. O uso da nitroglicerina não apresenta efeito benéfico na redução dessas incidências.

Background: The benefit of transradial catheterization is well established in female patients. Women undergoing transradial catheterization exams present with unique challenges. The occurrence of radial artery spasm and occlusion after the procedure is higher in women. The objective of this study was to evaluate the benefit of nitroglycerin in reducing radial artery spasm and occlusion in women undergoing transradial catheterization. Methods: This was a 2x2 factorial randomized, multicenter, prospective, double-blinded study. Participants were randomized to nitroglycerin 500mcg or placebo at two time points: after placement of the hemostatic introducer and before its removal. The evaluation of the radial artery spasm was clinical, using a pain scale The evaluation of the radial artery occlusion was performed with Doppler, in the first 12 hours. Results: A total of 2,040 patients were included, of which 774 (37.5%) were female. Mean age was similar between sexes (62.2 years versus 61.5 years; p=0.27). The incidence of radial artery spasm was higher in women (21.2% versus 6.6%; p<0.01), as well as the incidence of radial artery occlusion (3.4% versus 1.8%; p=0.03). The use of nitroglycerin at the beginning of the procedure did not reduce the incidence of radial artery spasm in women when compared with placebo (19.7% versus 22.6%; p=0.34), nor did the rates of radial artery occlusion (4.3% versus 2.5%; p=0.17). The use of nitroglycerin at the end of the procedure did not reduce the incidence of artery occlusion in women (2.8% versus 3.9%; p=0.37). Conclusions: Radial artery spasm and occlusion are more frequent in women undergoing transradial catheterization when compared to men. The use of nitroglycerin does not have a beneficial effect in reducing these incidences.

Panorama das Intervenções Coronárias Percutâneas em Oclusões Totais Crônicas em Centros Participantes do LATAM CTO Registry no Brasil / Overview of Percutaneous Coronary Interventions for Chronic Total Occlusions Treated at Brazilian Centers Participating in the LATAM CTO Registry

Resumo Fundamento Tem sido observado um grande avanço nas técnicas e nos dispositivos para a realização de intervenções coronárias percutâneas (ICP) em oclusões totais coronarianas crônicas (OTC), mas existem poucos dados da prática do mundo real em países em desenvolvimento. Objetivos Relatar as características clínicas e angiográficas, os aspectos dos procedimentos e os resultados clínicos da ICP de OTC em centros dedicados a esse procedimento no Brasil. Métodos Os pacientes incluídos foram submetidos à ICP de OTC em centros participantes do LATAM CTO Registry, um registro multicêntrico latino-americano dedicado à coleta prospectiva desses dados. Os critérios de inclusão foram procedimentos realizados no Brasil, idade acima de 18 anos e presença de OTC com tentativa de ICP. A definição de OTC foi lesão de 100% em uma artéria coronária epicárdica, conhecida ou estimada como tendo pelo menos 3 meses de evolução. Resultados Foram incluídos dados de 1.196 ICPs de OTC. Os procedimentos foram realizados principalmente para controle da angina (85%) e/ou tratamento de uma grande área isquêmica (24%). A taxa de sucesso técnico foi de 84% e foi alcançada com técnicas de fios anterógrados em 81%, dissecção/reentrada anterógrada em 9% e retrógrada em 10% dos procedimentos. Os eventos cardiovasculares adversos intra-hospitalares ocorreram em 2,3% dos casos, sendo a mortalidade de 0,75%. Conclusões As OTC podem ser tratadas no Brasil por intervenção coronária percutânea de forma efetiva e com baixas taxas de complicações. O desenvolvimento científico e tecnológico observado nessa área na última década reflete-se na prática clínica de centros brasileiros dedicados a essa técnica.

Abstract Background Major advances have been seen in techniques and devices for performing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) for chronic total occlusions (CTOs), but there are limited real-world practice data from developing countries. Objectives To report clinical and angiographic characteristics, procedural aspects, and clinical outcomes of CTO PCI performed at dedicated centers in Brazil. Methods Included patients underwent CTO PCI at centers participating in the LATAM CTO Registry, a Latin American multicenter registry dedicated to prospective collection of these data. Inclusion criteria were procedures performed in Brazil, age 18 years or over, and presence of CTO with PCI attempt. CTO was defined as a 100% lesion in an epicardial coronary artery, known or estimated to have lasted at least 3 months. Results Data on 1196 CTO PCIs were included. Procedures were performed primarily for angina control (85%) and/or treatment of moderate/severe ischemia (24%). Technical success rate was 84%, being achieved with antegrade wire approaches in 81% of procedures, antegrade dissection and re-entry in 9%, and retrograde approaches in 10%. In-hospital adverse cardiovascular events occurred in 2.3% of cases, with a mortality rate of 0.75%. Conclusions CTOs can be treated effectively in Brazil by using PCI, with low complication rates. The scientific and technological development observed in this area in the past decade is reflected in the clinical practice of dedicated Brazilian centers.

MethotrexaTE THerapy in ST-Segment Elevation MYocardial InfarctionS: A Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial (TETHYS Trial).

PURPOSE: Methotrexate is an anti-inflammatory drug that has been shown to have anti-ischemic effects. Our aim was to evaluate if methotrexate could reduce infarct size in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). METHODS: We randomly assigned patients with STEMI to receive either methotrexate or placebo. Primary outcome was infarct size determined by calculating the area under the curve (AUC) for creatine kinase (CK) release. Secondary outcomes were AUC of CK MB (CK-MB) and AUC of troponin I; peak CK, peak CK-MB, and troponin I; B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) result, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR); left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF); thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) frame count; Killip score; mortality and reinfarction incidence; and incidence of adverse reactions. RESULTS: We included 84 patients. Median AUC of CK was 78 861.0 in the methotrexate group and 68 088.0 in the placebo group ( P = .10). Patients given methotrexate and placebo exhibited, respectively, median AUC for CK-MB of 9803.4 and 8037.0 ( P = .42); median AUC for troponin of 3691.1 and 2132.6 ( P = .09); peak CK of 2806.0 and 2147.0 ( P = .05); peak CK-MB of 516.0 and 462.3 ( P = .25); and peak troponin of 121.0 and 85.1 ( P = .06). At 3 months, LVEF was lower in patients who received methotrexate (49.0% ± 14.1%) than in patients given placebo (56.4% ± 10.0%; P = .01). There were no differences in hsCRP, ESR, BNP, Killip scores, TIMI frame count, reinfarction, and mortality rates. There was a higher median serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase levels in the methotrexate group. CONCLUSION: Methotrexate did not reduce infarction size and worsened LVEF at 3 months ( Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT01741558).

Evaluation of Ventricular Remodeling and Prognosis in Patients with Aortic Stenosis Who Underwent Surgical or Percutaneous Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

ABSTRACT Introduction: Aortic stenosis is the most common heart valve disease in the world, and patients that present with symptoms have a high mortality rate. Aortic valve replacement has the objective of promote left ventricular remodeling, reduce symptoms, and increase overall survival. The objective of this study is to evaluate reverse remodeling of the left ventricle in patients with severe and symptomatic aortic stenosis who underwent surgical or percutaneous transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Methods: This is a longitudinal, prospective, non-concurrent, non-randomized unicentric study with patients who underwent aortic valve replacement. Echocardiogram was performed before and after replacement procedure to evaluate several remodeling indexes. Results: Of 91 patients, 77 (84.6%) underwent surgical aortic valve replacement, and 14 (15.4%) underwent percutaneous transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Mean age was 68,96±11,98 years, and most patients were male. Remodeling evaluation revealed that patients who decreased left ventricular index mass (53% vs. 38.9%; P=0,019) and those who reduced the mass/volume ratio (30.4% vs. 68.9%; P<0,001) presented with positive left ventricular remodeling. No endpoint difference was found in those with positive remodeling. Conclusion: Regarding the left ventricular remodeling in patients with severe and symptomatic aortic valve stenosis who underwent percutaneous transcatheter or surgical valve replacement, there is a positive increment in remodeling, however it remains in concentric hypertrophic shape. Implication of these findings remains uncertain and to be studied in large dedicated trials with clinical endpoints.

Correlation between leukocyte count and infarct size in ST segment elevation myocardial infarction.

INTRODUCTION: Regarding the inflammatory mechanisms involved in ischemic heart disease, currently the leukocyte count is the subject of studies related to its association with the prognosis and mortality of ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Our aim is correlate the leukocyte count rise with the size of STEMI, evaluated with the area under the curve (AUC) and the peak of necrosis markers release. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study is a sub-analysis of the TETHYS trial, a clinical trial that evaluated the effects of methotrexate in STEMI. We evaluated the correlation between quantitative variables with Pearson's correlation, and the variables that did not follow a normal distribution were subjected to logarithmic transformation to base 10. The value of p < 0.05 indicated statistical significance. RESULTS: Males accounted for 73% of the participants, who had an average age of 59 years. A total of 58% were hypertensive and 53% smokers. The leukocyte count at hospital admission was significantly correlated with the AUC creatine kinase (CK) (r = 0.256, p = 0.021), troponin AUC (r = 0.247, p = 0.026), peak CK (r = 0.270, p = 0.015) and troponin peak (r = 0.233, p = 0.037). The leukocyte count at 72 h was significantly correlated with CK AUC (r = 0.238, p = 0.032), AUC of MB portion of CK (r = 0.240, p = 0.031) and peak CK (r = 0.224, p = 0.045). CONCLUSIONS: White blood cell count correlates with STEMI size assessed by serial cardiac biomarker levels.

Associação entre o índice de massa corporal e a gravidade e complexidade das lesões coronarianas em pacientes pós-infarto / Association of body mass index and coronary lesions severity and complexity in post-myocardial infarction patients

Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre o índice de massa corporal e a gravidade das lesões coronarianas em pacientes com infarto agudo do miocárdio. Métodos: Coorte aninhada ao Catarina Heart Study que avaliou 350 indivíduos durante o primeiro evento de infarto agudo do miocárdio e o 30º dia pós-infarto. As variáveis qualitativas foram analisadas pelo teste do qui-quadrado. Após o resultado da distribuição, a avaliação de variáveis quantitativas foi feita pelo teste de t de Student, pela correlação de Pearson, pelo teste de Mann-Whitney e pela correlação de Spearman. Resultados: Indivíduos com obesidade G2 (15,4%) tiveram maior probabilidade de trombose em 30 dias em comparação a indivíduos com índice de massa corporal normal (1,1%), com p=0,005. Indivíduos com obesidade grau 1 (6,0%) e obesidade grau 2 (7,7%) tiveram mais eventos de infarto agudo do miocárdio em 30 dias em comparação a indivíduos com índice de massa corporal normal (0,0%), com p=0,019 e p=0,009, respectivamente. Nenhuma associação significativa foi encontrada em termos de fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo, mortalidade e complexidade das lesões coronarianas (escore SYNTAX e TIMI frame count). Conclusão: A obesidade em diversos graus está diretamente associada a fatores de risco para doença cardiovascular, como hipertensão arterial sistêmica, dislipidemia e tabagismo. Não houve associação entre o índice de massa corporal com a gravidade das lesões coronarianas ou a fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo. Não houve diferença na mortalidade comparando-se indivíduos com índice de massa corporal elevado a pacientes com índice de massa corporal normal. Pacientes com obesidade tiveram mais desfechos cardiovasculares, como trombose e novo evento de infarto agudo do miocárdio em 30 dias, ao serem comparados a pacientes com índice de massa corporal normal. Outros desfechos de seguimento em 30 dias não estiveram associados ao índice de massa corporal.

Objective: To evaluate the association between body mass index and severity of coronary lesions in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Methods: A cohort nested to Catarina Heart Study, which evaluated 350 individuals during the first event of myocardial infarction and the 30th day post-infarction. Qualitative variables were analyzed using the Chi-square test. After the distribution result, the evaluation of quantitative variables was done through Student's t-test, Pearson's correlation, Mann Whitney's test, and Spearman's correlation. Results: Individuals with G2 obesity (15.4%) had a greater probability of having thrombosis in 30 days compared to individuals with normal body mass index (1.1%), p=0.005. Individuals with G1 obesity (6.0%) and G2 obesity (7.7%) had more events of myocardial infarction in 30 days compared to individuals with normal body mass index (0.0%), with p=0.019 and p=0.009, respectively. No significant association was found in terms of left ventricle ejection fraction, mortality, and complexity of coronary lesions (SYNTAX score and TIMI frame count). Conclusion: Obesity in several degrees is directly associated with risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and smoking. There was no association between the body mass index and the severity of coronary lesions or left ventricle ejection fraction. There was no difference in mortality comparing individuals with high body mass index to patients with normal body mass index. Patients with obesity had more cardiovascular outcomes, such as thrombosis and a new event of myocardial infarction in 30 days when compared to patients with normal body mass index. Other follow-up outcomes in 30 days were not associated with body mass index

Role of vascular inflammation in coronary artery disease: potential of anti-inflammatory drugs in the prevention of atherothrombosis. Inflammation and anti-inflammatory drugs in coronary artery disease.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are inflammatory pathologies, involving interleukins (ILs), such as IL-1ß, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and acute phase proteins production, such as for C reactive protein (CRP). The process begins with retention of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and its oxidation inside the intima, with the formation of the "foam cells." Toll-like receptors and inflamassomes participate in atherosclerosis formation, as well as in the activation of the complement system. In addition to innate immunity, adaptive immunity is also associated with atherosclerosis through antigen-presenting cells, T and B lymphocytes. AMI also increases the expression of some ILs and promotes macrophage and lymphocyte accumulation. Reperfusion increases the expression of anti-inflammatory ILs (such as IL-10) and generates oxygen free radicals. Although CAD and AMI are inflammatory disorders, the only drugs with anti-inflammatory effect so far widely used in ischemic heart disease are aspirin and statins. Some immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive promising therapies, such as cyclosporine and colchicine, may have benefits in CAD. Methotrexate also has potential cardioprotective anti-inflammatory effects, through increased adenosine levels. The TETHYS trial (The Effects of mETHotrexate Therapy on ST Segment Elevation MYocardial InfarctionS trial) will evaluate low-dose methotrexate in ST elevation AMI. The CIRT (Cardiovascular Inflammation Reduction Trial), in turn, will evaluate low-dose methotrexate in patients with a high prevalence of subclinical vascular inflammation. The CANTOS (The Canakinumab Antiinflammatory Thrombosis Outcomes Study) will evaluate canakinumab in patients with CAD and persistently elevated CRP. The blockage of other potential targets, such as the IL-6 receptor, CC2 chemokine receptor and CD20, could bring benefits in CAD.

Associação entre a razão de monócitos por HDL e TIMI frame count e a trombose de stent em pacientes com primeiro infarto do miocárdio / Association of the monocyte to HDL ratio and TIMI frame count and stent thrombosis in patients with first myocardial infarction

Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre marcadores de gravidade e complexidade, assim como de desfechos em 30 dias, com a razão de monócitos por HDL em pacientes com primeiro infarto agudo do miocárdio. Métodos: Foram selecionados 580 pacientes com primeiro infarto agudo do miocárdio submetidos a questionário durante a internação e seguimento em 30 dias. Os dados laboratoriais foram obtidos de 312 pacientes na entrada e de 237 em 72 horas. A gravidade e a complexidade foram avaliadas pelo TIMI frame count, pela fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo e pelo escore Syntax. Resultados: O estudo evidenciou correlação positiva entre a razão de monócitos por HDL em 72 horas e o TIMI frame count, com r de 0,219 (p=0,018). Também evidenciou maior mediana de razão de monócitos por HDL nos pacientes que apresentaram trombose de stent em até 30 dias da internação ­ 35,8 (30,0-43,9) ­ comparados àqueles que não apresentaram, com 18,27 (12,98-26,74), p=0,038. Não houve correlação significativa entre a razão de monócitos por HDL da entrada com TIMI frame count, escore SYNTAX ou fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo. Conclusão: Houve correlação positiva entre a razão de monócitos por HDL em 72 horas e o TIMI frame count em pacientes com primeiro infarto agudo do miocárdio submetidos à angioplastia primária. Verificou-se, também, associação entre maiores níveis de razão de monócitos por HDL na entrada com trombose de stent em 30 dias.

Objective: To investigate the association between complexity and severity markers, as well as 30-day outcomes with the monocytes to HDL-cholesterol ratio in patients with first myocardial infarction. Methods: A total of 580 patients with first myocardial infarction was selected and answered a questionnaire during hospitalization and 30-day follow up. Laboratory data were obtained at admission for 312 patients and for 237 in 72 hours. Severity and complexity were assessed by TIMI frame count, left ventricular ejection fraction, and Syntax score. Results: The study showed that the monocyte to HDL ratio in 72 hours was significantly positively correlated with TIMI frame count, with r of 0.219 (p=0.018). It also showed higher monocyte to HDL ratio median in patients presenting stent thrombosis within 30 days of hospitalization ­ 35,8 (30,0-43,9) ­ compared to those who did not develop it 18,27 (12,98-26,74), p=0.038. No correlation was found between admission monocytes to HDL ratio and TIMI frame count, Syntax score, or left ventricular ejection fraction. Conclusion: There was a positive correlation between Monocytes to HDL ratio in 72 hours and TIMI frame count in patients with first myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention. An association between higher levels of admission monocyte to HDL ratio and stent thrombosis in 30 days was also observed.

Associação de índices hematológicos com fatores de risco, gravidade e complexidade da lesão no infarto agudo do miocárdio / Association of hematological índices with risk factors, severity and complexity of lesion in the acute myocardium infarction

Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre os índices hematológicos e os fatores de risco, a complexidade e a gravidade do infarto em relação aos desfechos cardiovasculares. Métodos: Trata-se de uma coorte prospectiva, aninhada ao Catarina Heart Study e realizada em um hospital público da Grande Florianópolis. Resultados: Entre 2016 e 2019, foram analisados 580 participantes. Os indivíduos diabéticos apresentaram valores de hemoglobina de 13,0g/dL (12,0 a 14,1g/dL), inferior aos não diabéticos, com valores de 14,0g/dL (12,7 a 15,0g/dL; p<0,001). Indivíduos dislipidêmicos apresentavam valores de hemoglobina e segmentados, respectivamente, de 13,3g/dL (12,1 a 14,4g/dL) e 6.910mm³ (5.990 a 7.807mm³), inferiores aos sem dislipidemia, que possuíam, respectivamente, 14,0g/dL (12,8 a 15,0g/dL; p<0,001) e 7.205mm³ (6.300 a 8.030mm³; p=0,038). A contagem de plaquetas foi maior nos que possuíam dislipidemia, 224.000mm³ (178.000 a 273.500mm³), quando comparados aos que não possuíam, 210.000mm³ (173.000 a 255.000mm³; p=0,029). Houve correlação entre o SYNTAX e a contagem de leucócitos (r=0,143; p=0,001) e segmentados (r=0,222; p<0,001). Houve correlação negativa entre a fração de ejeção ventricular e a contagem de leucócitos (r=-0,173; p<0,001) e dos segmentados (r=-0,255; p<0,001). Indivíduos reinternados em 30 dias apresentaram valores de segmentados de 7.440mm³ (6.590 a 8.360mm³), maior em relação aos não reinternados, com 7.100mm³ (6.100 a 8.022mm³), sendo p=0,05. Os participantes que morreram por qualquer causa possuíam hemoglobina de 12,0g/dL (11,4 a 13,7g/dL), inferior aos indivíduos que permaneceram vivos em 30 dias, cujos valores foram de 13,7g/dL (12,5 a 14,9g/dL), sendo p=0,021. Conclusão: A contagem maior de plaquetas está associada à dislipidemia. Valores de hemoglobina baixas estão associados a um pior prognóstico em 30 dias e aos fatores de risco cardiovasculares, como diabetes mellitus e dislipidemia. A contagem maior de leucócitos está associada à reinternação em 30 dias e correlacionada à gravidade e à complexidade da lesão do infarto.

Objective: To evaluate the association of hematological indices with risk factors, complexity, and severity of the acute myocardial infarction regarding cardiovascular outcomes. Methods: This is a prospective cohort, nested to Catarina Heart Study, performed in a public hospital of Florianópolis. Results: Between 2016 and 2019, 580 participants were analyzed. Diabetic individuals had hemoglobin levels of 13.0g/dL (12.0 to 14.1g/dL), lower than those in non-diabetic individuals, with values of 14.0g/dL (12.7 to 15.0g/dL; p<0.001). Individuals with dyslipidemia had hemoglobin and segmented leukocytes of, respectively, 13.3g/dL (12.1 to 14.4g/dL) and 6,910mm³ (5,990 to 7,807mm³), lower than in non-dyslipidemic individuals, who had, respectively, 14.0g/dL (12.8 to 15.0g/dL; p<0.001) and 7,205mm³ (6,300 to 8,030mm³; p=0.038). Platelet count was higher in those who had dyslipidemia, 224,000mm³ (178,000 to 273,500mm³), when compared to non-dyslipidemic, 210,000mm³ (173,000 to 255,000mm³; p=0.029). There was a correlation between Syntax and leukocyte count (r=0.143, p=0.001) and segmented (r=0.222; p<0.001). There was a negative correlation between ventricular ejection fraction and leukocytes count (r=-0.173; p<0.001) and segmented (r=-0.255; p<0.001). Individuals readmitted in 30 days had segmented values of 7,440mm³ (6,590 to 8,360mm³), higher compared to non-readmitted, with 7,100mm³ (6,100 to 8,022mm³), p=0,05. Individuals who died of any cause had hemoglobin of 12.0g/dL (11.4 to 13.7g/dL), lower than those that remained alive in 30 days, with values of 13.7g/dL (12.5 to 14.9g/dL), p=0.021. Conclusion: Higher platelet count is associated with dyslipidemia. Low hemoglobin values are associated with worse outcomes in 30 days and with cardiovascular risk factors, such as diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia. Higher leukocyte count is associated with readmission in 30 days and is also correlated to the severity and complexity of acute myorcardial infarction.

Características do primeiro infarto agudo do miocárdio em indivíduos jovens / Characteristics of the first acute myocardial infarction in young adults

Objetivo: Avaliar o perfil de gravidade de pessoas muito jovens (<30 anos) e jovens (<40 anos) atendidas com o primeiro episódio de infarto agudo do miocárdio e relacionar os fatores de risco e as lesões coronarianas. Método: Realizou-se uma coorte prospectiva que avaliou 712 pessoas no período de agosto de 2016 a fevereiro de 2020, hospitalizadas pelo primeiro episódio de infarto agudo do miocárdio e atendidas na região da Grande Florianópolis. Foram avaliados fatores de risco, os escores Syntax e TIMI frame count, a fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo, o valor de delta t e o tempo porta-balão. Foram considerados significativos os valores de p<0,05. Resultado: A hipertensão arterial sistêmica teve menor prevalência entre os participantes muito jovens (<30 anos) quando comparados aos com mais idade (0% versus 58,7%; p=0,012), o que se repete também no grupo dos jovens (<40 anos), quando comparados aos com mais idade (26,1% versus 59,3%; p=0,002). Houve maior prevalência de uso de álcool nos muito jovens (80% versus 33,3%; p=0,046), e a prevalência de drogadição neste grupo foi de 40%, quando comparados aos pacientes com 30 anos ou mais (3,3%; p=0,046), e, nos jovens (<40 anos), quando comparados aos com 40 anos ou mais, foi de 21,7% (versus 2,9%; p=0,011). Os menores de 40 anos tiveram mais eventos com supradesnivelamento de segmento ST quando comparados aos pacientes com mais idade ­ sendo que, no grupo dos muito jovem (<30 anos), 100% apresentaram essa alteração eletrocardiográfica versus 48,8% nos com 30 anos ou mais (p=0,028). Os jovens tiveram maior razão de chances de apresentar disfunção ventricular esquerda pós-infarto agudo do miocárdio (razão de chance de 4,24; p=0,026), além de apresentarem um fator protetor para melhor reperfusão coronariana pós-angioplastia (razão de chance de 0,135; p=0,063) e não obtiveram diferença significativa quanto ao delta t prolongado (razão de chance de 0,72; p=0,547) e ao tempo porta-balão prolongado (razão de chance de 0,86; p=0,776). Conclusão: Jovens têm menor prevalência de hipertensão arterial sistêmica e maior de uso de drogas e álcool. Em sua maioria, apresentaram infarto do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST e maior razão de chances de apresentar disfunção ventricular esquerda, apesar de um maior fluxo coronariano pós- -angioplastia. Não houve diferença quanto ao delta t e tempo porta-balão entre os participantes jovens e muito jovens.

Objective: To assess the severity profile of very young (<30 years old) and young (<40 years old) people seen with the first episode of myocardial infarction and to relate risk factors and coronary lesions. Method: A prospective cohort was performed that evaluated 712 individuals, from August 2016 to February 2020, admitted with first episode of myocardial infarction in hospitals in the metropolitan area of Florianópolis. Risk factors, Syntax scores, TIMI frame count, left ventricular ejection fraction, delta-t value, and door-to-balloon time were evaluated. Values of p<0.05 were considered significant. Result: Systemic arterial hypertension had a lower prevalence in very young (<30 years) when compared to the older ones (0% versus 58.7%; p=0.012), and is the same for the young group (<40 years) when compared to the older ones (26.1% versus 59.3%; p=0.002). There was a higher prevalence of alcohol use in the very young (80% versus 33.3%; p=0.046) and the prevalence of drug addiction in this group was of 40% when compared the participants of 30 years or more (versus 3.3%; p=0.046), and, in the young group (<40 years) when compared to those of 40 years or more was of 21.7% (versus 2.9%; p=0.011). The ones below 40 years had more ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction when compared to the older patients ­ and in the very young group (<30 years) 100% showed this electrocardiographic alteration versus 48.8% in those of 30 years or more (p=0.028). The young group had a higher odds ratio for left ventricular dysfunction after myocardial infarction (odds ratio of 4.24; p=0.026), and had a protecting factor for better post-angioplasty coronary reperfusion (odds ratio of 0.135; p=0.063) and showed no significant difference in terms of prolonged delta-t (odds ratio of 0.72; p=0.547) and prolonged door-to-balloon time (odds ratio of 0.86; p=0.776). Conclusion: Young people have a lower prevalence of systemic arterial hypertension and a higher prevalence of drug and alcohol abuse. Most of them had ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and a higher odds ratio for presenting left ventricular dysfunction, despite a greater coronary flow after angioplasty. There was no difference regarding delta-t and door-to-balloon time among young and very young participants.

Association between Smoking and Alcohol Consumption and the Severity of Coronary Artery Injuries in Patients with AMI

Smoking is the most important risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD) and ischemic events; alcohol consumption, on the other hand, appears to have a protective role. Objective: Assess the association between smoking and alcohol consumption with the severity of coronary artery injuries in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Methods: Cross-sectional study, performed in Santa Catarina. Variables were evaluated using the Chi-squared T/Fisher's exact test, Kendall's correlation coefficient, Student's t test or Mann-Whitney U test. Values of p < 0.05 were considered significant. Results: Between August 2016 to June 2017, 226 patients were evaluated with first episode of AMI. There was a difference in sex distribution, showing that 59.7% of men and 85.4% of women were not alcoholic (p < 0.001). There was a higher prevalence of non-hypertensive patients who consumed alcohol than hypertensive ones (40.7% vs. 24.4% and p = 0.010) and patients without diabetes who had drinking habits than those diabetic (36.4% vs. 12.0% and p = 0.001). There was also a higher prevalence of non-diabetic patients who smoked than diabetic ones (38.1% vs. 22.0% and p = 0.035). A weak and negative correlation was found between the number of cigarettes per day and the pack-year with the TIMI frame count (r = -0.174 and p = 0.041 and r = -0.192 and p = 0.027, respectively). The other associations did not show statistical significance. Conclusion: The study showed that the number of cigarettes consumed per day and the pack-year is related to a smaller TIMI frame count, i.e., to a better coronary flow, which may be related to the Smoker's Paradox. There was no correlation between the beverage type and quantity with the SYNTAX score, Ejection fraction and TIMI frame count

Analysis of the Appropriate Use Criteria for Coronary Angiography in Two Cardiology Services of Southern Brazil / Análise do Uso dos Critérios de Indicação de Coronariografia em Dois Serviços de Cardiologia do Sul do Brasil

Abstract Background: Despite its great relevance, there are no studies in our country evaluating the application of the 2012 guidelines for the appropriate use of cardiac diagnostic catheterization. Objective: To analyze the adequacy of coronary angiography performed in two hospitals in the southern region of Brazil. Methods: This is a multicenter cross-sectional study, which analyzed indications, results and proposals for the treatment of 737 coronary angiograms performed in a tertiary hospital with multiple specialties (Hospital A) and a tertiary cardiology hospital (Hospital B). Elective or emergency coronary angiographies were included, except for cases of acute myocardial infarction with ST segment elevation. The level of statistical significance adopted was 5% (p < 0.05). Results: Of the 737 coronary angiograms, 63.9% were performed in male patients. The mean age was 61.6 years. The indication was acute coronary syndrome in 57.1%, and investigation of coronary artery disease in 42.9% of the cases. Regarding appropriation, 80.6% were classified as appropriate, 15.1% occasionally appropriate, and 4.3% rarely appropriate. The proposed treatment was clinical for 62.7%, percutaneous coronary intervention for 24.6%, and myocardial revascularization surgery for 12.7% of the cases. Of the coronary angiographies classified as rarely appropriate, 56.2% were related to non-performance of previous functional tests, and 21.9% showed severe coronary lesions. However, regardless of the outcome of coronary angiography, all patients in this group were indicated for clinical treatment. Conclusion: We observed a low number of rarely appropriate coronary angiograms in our sample. The guideline recommendation in these cases was adequate, and no patient required revascularization treatment. Most of these cases are due to non-performance of functional tests.

Resumo Fundamento: Apesar de sua grande relevância, não existem trabalhos em nosso país que avaliem a aplicação das diretrizes de 2012 para uso apropriado do cateterismo cardíaco diagnóstico. Objetivo: Analisar a apropriação das coronariografias realizadas em dois hospitais da região sul do Brasil. Métodos: Estudo transversal multicêntrico, que analisou as indicações, resultados e propostas de tratamento de 737 coronariografias realizadas em um hospital terciário com múltiplas especialidades (Hospital A) e um hospital cardiológico terciário (Hospital B). Foram incluídas coronariografias eletivas ou de urgência, com exceção dos casos de infarto agudo do miocárdio com elevação do segmento ST. O nível de significância estatística adotado foi de 5% (p < 0,05). Resultados: Do total de 737 coronariografias, 63,9% foram realizadas em pacientes do sexo masculino. A média de idade foi 61,6 anos. A indicação foi síndrome coronariana aguda em 57,1% e investigação de doença arterial coronariana em 42,9% dos casos. Em relação à apropriação, 80,6% foram classificadas como apropriadas, 15,1% ocasionalmente apropriadas e 4,3% raramente apropriadas. O tratamento proposto foi clínico para 62,7%, intervenção coronária percutânea para 24,6% e cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica para 12,7% dos casos. Das coronariografias classificadas como raramente apropriadas, 56,2% foram relacionadas à não realização de provas funcionais prévias e 21,9% apresentaram lesões coronarianas graves. Porém, independentemente do resultado da coronariografia, todos os pacientes nesse grupo foram indicados para tratamento clínico. Conclusão: Observamos baixo número de coronariografias raramente apropriadas em nossa amostra. A recomendação da diretriz nesses casos foi adequada, sendo que nenhum paciente necessitou de tratamento de revascularização. A maior parte desses casos se deve à não realização de provas funcionais.

Correlação entre atividade física e variáveis de pacientes com infarto agudo do miocárdio / Correlation between physical activity and clinical variables in patients with acute myocardial infarction

Fundamentos: A atividade física reduz o risco de doença coronariana, uma das principais causas de morte no mundo. Objetivos: Este estudo pretende correlacionar as atividades físicas com variáveis clínicas de pacientes internados em hospitais públicos de Santa Catarina após o primeiro infarto agudo do miocárdio. Métodos: Os pacientes selecionados foram submetidos a questionário que engloba diferentes variáveis clínicas. A atividade física foi mensurada através do Escore de Baecke. Os dados obtidos foram tabulados e analisados através do software SPSS 13.0 for Windows. A avaliação da normalidade foi realizada pelo teste de Kolmogorov-Smirnov. A correlação entre duas variáveis quantitativas foi avaliada pela Correlação de Pearson. Foram considerados significativos valores de p < 0,05. Resultados: O estudo evidenciou uma correlação positiva fraca entre o escore de Baecke e anos de escolaridade com r = 0,361 (p = 0,001). Houve uma correlação negativa fraca entre o escore de Baecke e o escore de depressão PHQ9 com r = -0,252 (p = 0,009). O estudo também apresentou correlação negativa fraca entre o escore de depressão PHQ9 e o Mini Mental com r = -0,258 (p = 0,007), assim como uma correlação negativa fraca entre o PHQ9 e os anos de escolaridade com r = -0,199 (p = 0,039). Conclusões: Existe uma correlação positiva entre atividade física e anos de escolaridade em pacientes internados com o primeiro infarto agudo do miocárdio. Há também uma correlação negativa entre atividade física e depressão nesses pacientes, assim como uma correlação negativa entre depressão e o Mini-Mental, e depressão e anos de escolaridade

Background: Physical activity reduces the risk of coronary heart disease, one of the leading causes of death in the world. Objectives: This study intends to correlate physical activity and clinical variables of the patients hospitalized in public hospitals of Santa Catarina after the first acute myocardial infarction. Methods: The selected patients answered a questionnaire on different clinical variables. Physical activity was measured using the Baecke's questionnaire. Data were tabulated and analyzed using the SPSS 13.0 for Windows software. Normality was assessed using the Kolmogorov­Smirnov test. Correlations between two quantitative variables were evaluated by Pearson's correlation. Values of p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: The study showed a weak positive correlation between the Baecke score and years of schooling (r = 0.361; p = 0.001). There was a weak negative correlation between the Baecke score and the PHQ9 depression score (r = ­0.252; p = 0.009). The study also showed a weak negative correlation between the PHQ9 depression score and the Mini Mental score (r = ­0.258; p = 0.007), as well as a weak negative correlation between PHQ9 and schooling years with (r = ­0.199, p = 0.039). Conclusions: There is a positive correlation between physical activity and years of schooling in hospitalized patients with first acute myocardial infarction. Negative correlations were found between physical activity and depression, between depression and the Mini­Mental State Examination, and between depression and years of schooling in these patients

Correlação entre fatores clínicos e educacionais e atraso na chegada ao hospital no infarto agudo do miocárdio / Corelation between clinical and educational factors and delayed hospital arrival in myocardial infarction

Background: Acute myocardial infarction is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in the world, and one of the factors with the greatest prognostic impact is early specialist care, but there are still many factors that delay patient's arrival at the hospital. Objective: To correlate social, educational, cognitive and clinical factors with time to hospital arrival after the onset of acute myocardial infarction's first symptoms. Methods: Time interval to search for medical care was measured by patient's report of the onset of infarction's first symptoms and hospital admission verified through electronic medical data of the emergency service. The correlation between delta-T and other variables was performed through Kendall's correlation. Values of p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: There was no correlation between delta-T and scholarity, or between delta - T and Mini Mental State Examination performance, as well as no association between the presence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, family history, sedentary lifestyle or smoking with arrival time at the hospital. Comparisons between delta-T and marital status were also not statistically significant. Transfer from another health service and city of origin were the most determinant delay factors in our population's arrival at the hospital. Conclusion: The present study suggests that, in our population, educational, social and cognitive factors are not directly related to the delay in arriving at the hospital

Fundamentos: O infarto agudo do miocárdio se configura como uma das principais causas de morbimortalidade no mundo, e um dos fatores de maior impacto prognóstico é o atendimento especializado precoce, porém ainda existem inúmeros fatores que retardam a chegada do paciente até o hospital. Objetivo: Correlacionar fatores sociais, educacionais, cognitivos e clínicos com o tempo para a chegada no hospital após os primeiros sintomas de infarto agudo do miocárdio. Métodos: O tempo para a busca de atendimento médico foi mensurado entre o início dos primeiros sintomas de infarto relatado pelo paciente e o registro da admissão hospitalar em prontuário eletrônico do serviço de emergência. A correlação entre o delta T e outras variáveis foi verificada por meio da correlação de Kendall. Valores de p < 0,05 foram considerados estatisticamente significativos. Resultados: Não houve correlação entre delta T e escolaridade, e nem entre delta T e desempenho no Mini-Exame do Estado Mental, assim como não houve associação entre a presença de hipertensão arterial sistêmica, diabetes melito, dislipidemia, sedentarismo, história familiar ou tabagismo com o tempo de chegada no hospital. Comparações entre delta T e estado civil também não foram estatisticamente significativas. A transferência de outro serviço de saúde e a região de procedência foram os fatores que mais determinaram atraso no atendimento especializado de nossa população. Conclusão: Fatores educacionais, sociais e cognitivos não estiveram diretamente relacionados ao atraso na chegada ao hospital

Correlation between Clinical and Educational Factors and Delayed Hospital Arrival in Myocardial Infarction

Acute myocardial infarction is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in the world, and one of the factors with the greatest prognostic impact is early specialist care, but there are still many factors that delay patient's arrival at the hospital. Objective: To correlate social, educational, cognitive and clinical factors with time to hospital arrival after the onset of acute myocardial infarction's first symptoms. Methods: Time interval to search for medical care was measured by patient's report of the onset of infarction's first symptoms and hospital admission verified through electronic medical data of the emergency service. The correlation between delta-T and other variables was performed through Kendall's correlation. Values of p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: There was no correlation between delta-T and scholarity, or between delta - T and Mini Mental State Examination performance, as well as no association between the presence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, family history, sedentary lifestyle or smoking with arrival time at the hospital. Comparisons between delta-T and marital status were also not statistically significant. Transfer from another health service and city of origin were the most determinant delay factors in our population's arrival at the hospital. Conclusion: The present study suggests that, in our population, educational, social and cognitive factors are not directly related to the delay in arriving at the hospital