Controversies in the Treatment of Women with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Interv Cardiol Clin. 2016 Oct;5(4):523-532. doi: 10.1016/j.iccl.2016.06.014. Epub 2016 Jul 30.

Abstract

Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of death in women. Women with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarctions continue to have worse outcomes compared with men despite advancements in therapies. Furthermore, these differences are particularly pronounced among young men and women with myocardial infarctions. Differences in the pathophysiology of coronary artery plaque development, disease presentation, and recognition likely contribute to these outcome disparities. Despite having worse outcomes compared with men, women clearly benefit from aggressive treatment and the latest therapies. This article reviews the treatment options for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarctions and the outcomes of women after treatment with reperfusion therapies.

Keywords: Gender; Outcomes; ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction; Women.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Myocardial Reperfusion*
  • Risk Factors
  • ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction / mortality*
  • ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction / therapy*
  • Sex Factors
  • Treatment Outcome