Myocardial infarction at young age.

In a group of 25 men after myocardial infarction (MI) at an age under 40 years the occurrence of risk factors of ischaemic heart disease, the results of both invasive and noninvasive investigations as well as other special examinations within one year after the attack of acute MI were analysed. In 36% there was a normal finding or nonsignificant stenosis on the coronary arteries (less than 50% lumen obstruction at coronary angiography); a significant stenosis was found in 64%, out of which only one coronary vessel was affected in 32%. Dominant risk factors were: smoking, lipid metabolism disturbances, hypertension and a positive family history. The average number of risk factors in the group with a normal finding on the coronary arteries was 2.55, and in the group with a significant coronary sclerosis 4.85. The risk of myocardial infarction is increased by the coexistence of heavy smoking habits and vigorous physical activity. No correlation was found between the extent and location of coronary sclerosis and the functional parametres and wall motion of the left ventricle. An analysis of occupational status before MI revealed that 52% of the patients were workers, 40% professional drivers and only 8% were clerks.