ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: Challenges in diagnosis

Abstract

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the US. While there is a codified definition of STEMI, challenges in diagnosis remain due to variability in electrocardiogram (ECG) presentation, conditions with similar presentations, variability in the electrical manifestation of ST-segment elevation on ECG, and systems issues with access to rapid diagnosis that can make this diagnosis challenging. This article aims to review these challenges.