Assessment of C-reactive Protein in Cases of Acute Myocardial Infarction and Its Correlation with Risk Factors

Introduction: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, which results from occlusion of coronary artery. C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein, synthesized by hepatocytes in response to cytokines released into circulation by activated leukocytes. It is a sensitive marker of coronary inflammation as well as the extent of myocardial necrosis. CRP measurement has many advantages in detection and monitoring the acute phase response. Aim: To assess serum CRP level in newly diagnosed cases of AMI and to assess correlation with risk factors. Materials and Methods: A total of 90 patients presenting with AMI admitted to ICCU in the Department of Cardiology, Mamata General & Super Specialty Hospital, Khammam, were included in the study. All the patients were diagnosed based on clinical examination electrocardiogram, troponin-I, and cardiac enzymes. Serum CRP levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Patients were divided into two subgroups based on the presence of major risk factors hypertension: Diabetes mellitus and smoking. All values are expressed as mean +/- standard deviation. The results obtained are analyzed statistically. Results: This study showed that mean serum CRP levels were increased in the study group. Among two subgroups, mean CRP level increased significantly in the group with risk factors when compared with another group. Conclusion: Patients with AMI cases shows the presence of major risk factors and higher CRP level who may require more stringent treatment and monitoring when compared with subjects without risk factors.