PLASMA HOMOCYSTEINE CONCENTRATIONS IN YOUNG PATIENTS WITH ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION

INTRODUCTION: Most studies indicate that increased plasma homocysteine level is a risk factor for coronary artery disease. However, data concerning the role of homocysteine in young patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is scanty. The aim of this study was to study the possible association between homocysteine plasma levels and early-onset AMI. METHODS: This case-control study included 83 AMI patients and 83 healthy controls. Biochemical parameters were determined and homocysteine was measured by enzyme immunoassay. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to test the association of homocysteine with the occurrence of AMI. RESULTS: Homocysteine concentration in patients with AMI was higher than in controls (19.54±13.3 and 15.54±8.9 μmol/l, respectively, P=0.002). Hyperhomocysteinemia was associated with early myocardial infarction (odds ratio=5.05). Hypercholesterolemia (OR=4/21), opium addiction (OR=4/78) and age (OR=1/24) also had associations with AMI. CONCLUSIONS: Our results showed that homocysteine levels are elevated in young patients with AMI, and hyperhomocysteinemia is associated with early myocardial infarction; hence it should be evaluated in all young patients with AMI.