Advances in rapid diagnostic tests for myocardial infarction patients.

INTRODUCTION: A rapid diagnosis of myocardial infarction (MI) is of utmost importance in order to provide adequate therapy for patients that suffer from acute ischemic cardiac injury. Cardiac troponin has evolved as the most significant biomarker in the diagnostic assessment of MI, but its evaluation and management can be challenging. Different troponin based diagnostic protocols have been suggested for the diagnosis of MI and they have been validated and further developed over the years.

AREAS COVERED: This review highlights the advances, characteristics, and challenges of rapid diagnostic protocols for MI and summarizes recent findings of investigations in the field.

EXPERT OPINION: Even though high-sensitivity troponin assays and rapid diagnostic protocols have revolutionized the assessment of suspected MI, we are still facing challenges that must be overcome in order to improve the outcome of patients with MI.