Alteration in magnesium level in acute myocardial infarction

Sodium, potassium, calcium, zinc and magnesium levels in the serum of 31 patients diagnosed as acute myocardial infarction were analyzed on admission (within 24 Hours) and after 48 hours. The results were compared with those of 26 age matched controls. No significant difference was observed in the mean sodium, potassium, calcium and zinc levels between the cases and controls. Compared to the controls, however, the variation in the level of magnesium is highly significant at the time of admission as well as after 48 hours. When the risk factors like diabetes mellitus, hypertension, smoking and alcohol were considered, it is found that there is no significant difference between the risk groups as well as between the patients. The alteration in magnesium level in acute myocardial infarction is independent of these risk factors. Within the first 24 hours, the significant decrease in serum magnesium (35–51% fall when compared with the control group), correlates with its entry into the cell following ischemia. From this hypo‐magnesemic state, it rises to 9–22 times after 48 hours. This hyper‐magnesemia after 48 hours is probably due to the shift of magnesuim from the intracellular fluid compartment to the extracellular fluid compartment that follows cellular recovery. Therefore, including magnesium in the immediate management of acute myocardial infarction will be beneficial in the early recovery.