Precordial ECG mapping in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) after intravenous infusion of streptokinase (s).

ABSTRACT

Repeated precordial ECG mapping (42 leads) and CK-MB serum measurements were done in 40 patients with anterior and/or anterolateral acute myocardial infarction. Twenty patients serving as controls, were treated with routine anticoagulant therapy. In 20 patients (the s group), randomly selected, a short-term IV infusion of 1,500,000 IU streptokinase was administered and followed by the same anticoagulant treatment as in controls. Ten subjects from each group underwent coronary arteriography one month later. From the analysis of ECG mapping the number of leads (N) and the sum of measurements (sigma) for each parameter were calculated. Before treatment there were no significant differences for all measured parameters between the two groups of patients. Seven days later, ST elevations were statistically different for NST and sigma ST with lower values for the s group. Higher values for NR and sigma R were also noted in this group. No statistically significant difference was found for NQ and sigma Q. CK-MB curve showed an earlier peak in the s group than in the control group. Five patients from the s group showed a patency of the infarct-related vessel. In conclusion, the results of this study show that patients receiving s have a significant benefit with ECG improvement. On the other hand, the CK-MB curve indicates an eventual recanalization to a certain degree in the obstructed coronary artery, which is the final goal.