History of Present Illness: Ms J. K. is an 83 year old retired nurse with a long history of hypertension that
was previously well controlled on diuretic therapy. She was first admitted to CPMC in 1995 when she
presented with a complaint of intermittent midsternal chest pain. Her electrocardiogram at that time
showed first degree atrioventricular block, and a chest X-ray showed mild pulmonary congestion, with
cardiomegaly. Myocardial infarction was ruled out by the lack of electrocardiographic and cardiac enzyme
abnormalities. Patient was discharged after a brief stay on a regimen of enalapril, and lasix, and digoxin,
for presumed congestive heart failure. Since then she has been followed closely by her cardiologist.
Aside from hypertension and her postmenopausal state, the patient denies other coronary artery disease risk
factors, such as diabetes, cigarette smoking, hypercholesterolemia or family history for heart disease. Since
her previous admission, she describes a stable two pillow orthopnea, dyspnea on exertion after walking two
blocks, and a mild chronic ankle edema which is worse on prolonged standing. She denies syncope,
paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea, or recent chest pains.
She was well until 11pm on the night prior to admission when she noted the onset of “aching pain under
her breast bone” while sitting, watching television. The pain was described as “heavy” and “toothache”
like. It was not noted to radiate, nor increase with exertion. She denied nausea, vomiting, diaphoresis,
palpitations, dizziness, or loss of consciousness. She took 2 tablespoon of antacid without relief, but did
manage to fall sleep. In the morning she awoke free of pain, however upon walking to the bathroom, the
pain returned with increased severity. At this time she called her daughter, who gave her an aspirin and
brought her immediately to the emergency room. Her electrocardiogram on presentation showed sinus
tachycardia at 110, with marked ST elevation in leads I, AVL, V4-V6 and occasional ventricular
paroxysmal contractions. Patient immediately received thrombolytic therapy and cardiac medications, and
was transferred to the intensive care unit.