Alcohol-triggered acute myocardial infarction

Am J Ther. 2003 Jan-Feb;10(1):71-2. doi: 10.1097/00045391-200301000-00016.

Abstract

Heavy alcohol drinking may trigger the onset of acute myocardial infarction. Although the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood, alcohol-induced changes in blood homeostasis, endothelial dysfunction, decreased fibrinolysis, and coronary spasm are the possible explanations. There are rare reports of acute myocardial infarction in young individuals triggered by acute heavy alcohol intake. We present a case of acute ST segment elevation myocardial infarction triggered by heavy alcoholic binge drinking in a man and discuss the available explanations of this rare association.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Angioplasty, Balloon, Coronary
  • Electrocardiography
  • Ethanol / poisoning*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Myocardial Infarction / chemically induced*
  • Myocardial Infarction / physiopathology
  • Myocardial Infarction / therapy
  • Stents
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Ethanol