What investigations are done for myocardial infarction?

1. Electrocardiogram (ECG): This is the first test done to diagnose a myocardial infarction. It can show changes in the electrical activity of the heart caused by the lack of blood flow to the heart muscle.

2. Blood tests: Blood tests are done to measure levels of cardiac enzymes such as troponin, creatine kinase (CK), and myoglobin. Elevated levels of these enzymes indicate damage to the heart muscle.

3. Echocardiogram: This test uses sound waves to create images of the heart and can show areas of the heart that are not contracting properly due to lack of blood flow.

4. Coronary angiography: This is an invasive procedure where a dye is injected into the coronary arteries to visualize any blockages or narrowing in the arteries that may be causing the myocardial infarction.

5. Cardiac MRI or CT scan: These imaging tests can provide detailed images of the heart and can help identify areas of damage caused by a myocardial infarction.

6. Stress test: This test involves monitoring the heart's activity while the patient exercises to see how the heart responds to stress. It can help determine the extent of damage to the heart muscle.

7. Holter monitor or event monitor: These are portable devices that record the heart's electrical activity over a period of time to detect any irregularities in heart rhythm that may be related to a myocardial infarction.

History and Physical Examination:

- Assess symptoms, risk factors, and past medical history
- Perform physical examination to check for signs of MI, such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and arrhythmias

Electrocardiogram (ECG):

- Detects abnormal electrical activity in the heart, indicating an MI

Cardiac Biomarkers:

- Blood tests to measure levels of proteins released by damaged heart muscle, such as:
- Troponin I or T
- Creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB)

Echocardiogram:

- Ultrasound imaging to assess heart function, structure, and any abnormalities caused by MI

Cardiac MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):

- Provides detailed images of the heart, including the extent and severity of MI

Cardiac Catheterization:

- Invasive procedure to visualize the coronary arteries and check for blockages or narrowing that may have caused MI

Stress Test:

- Evaluates the heart's response to increased activity, which can reveal areas of reduced blood flow caused by MI

Holter Monitor:

- Portable ECG device worn for 24-48 hours to continuously monitor for heart rhythm abnormalities

Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA):

- Non-invasive imaging using X-rays and contrast dye to assess the coronary arteries and identify blockages