The Characteristics of nonfatal myocardial Infarction in the Aged

Abstract

Introduction The Home for Aged and Infirm Hebrews is an institution with a census of more than 900 persons over the age of 60. In the course of the long-term medical management of this population it became apparent that the characteristics of nonfatal myocardial infarction in this group departed from the clinical picture commonly associated with this disease. It was felt that an analysis of the incidence and clinical features of nonfatal myocardial infarction would be helpful in the diagnosis and treatment of cases in this age group. Material and Methods The records of 700 ambulatory residents of the Home were reviewed for evidence of myocardial infarction over the five-year period from 1951 through 1955. In addition to data from intercurrent illnesses, the results of routine annual complete examinations, including history, physical examination, electrocardiogram, complete blood cell count, urinalysis, chest x-ray, blood sugar, and urea nitrogen, were available. Illness of