Spectrum of ischemic heart disease and the role of biochemical markers.

An exciting era exists as a result of the introduction of novel markers of myocardial damage. The prognostic implications of troponins, even in the setting of "minor myocardial damage," are potentially of immense value to patient care. We need to take the next step and assess the outcomes of interventions in these settings. Use of new markers at triage will probably allow for more efficient and safe disposition of patients in this setting. There are many advantages and disadvantages to the current markers and many unanswered questions. Only through well-designed large clinical trials will we be able to realize the true potential of these markers.

Duke Scholars

Author Paul Wayne Armstrong Medicine, Cardiology