What is inferior lateral myocardial infarction?
Inferior lateral myocardial infarction is a type of myocardial infarction, or heart attack, that occurs in the lower and outer portion of the left ventricle. It represents about 15%-20% of all myocardial infarctions and is less common than anterior myocardial infarction.
Causes
The most common cause of inferior lateral myocardial infarction is a blockage in the right coronary artery, which is the main artery supplying blood to the lower part of the left ventricle. This can occur due to atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up on the inside of the artery and narrows the lumen. Other risk factors for inferior lateral myocardial infarction include:
* Older age
* Male sex
* Diabetes mellitus
* High blood pressure
* High cholesterol
* Smoking
* Obesity
Symptoms
The symptoms of inferior lateral myocardial infarction are similar to those of other myocardial infarctions and may include:
* Chest pain or pressure: Typically on the left or right side of the chest and can last more than 20 minutes
* Shortness of breath
* Nausea and vomiting
* Sweating
* Light-headedness or fainting
* Upper body pain: Including the arms, neck, or back
Diagnosis
Inferior lateral myocardial infarction is diagnosed based on a combination of factors including the patient's symptoms, physical examination findings, ECG changes, and laboratory tests such as troponins. An ECG may show ST segment elevation in the inferior leads ( leads II, III, and aVF) and lateral leads ( leads I and aVL). Troponins are proteins that are released into the blood when the heart muscle is damaged and elevated troponin levels are indicative of a myocardial infarction.
Treatment
Treatment for inferior lateral myocardial infarction typically involves:
* Rest and oxygen
* Aspirin
* Nitroglycerin
* Morphine
* Beta blockers
* ACE inhibitors
* Statins
In some cases, patients may also require percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), a procedure to open the blocked coronary artery, or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), a surgical procedure to bypass the blocked artery.
Prognosis
The prognosis for inferior lateral myocardial infarction is generally good with prompt treatment. However, some patients may develop complications such as heart failure or arrhythmias.