Interpretation of elevated serum VEGF concentrations in patients with myocardial infarction

► We examine the usefulness of serum as a medium for measuring circulating VEGF levels in patients with myocardial infarction. ► We analyse possible relationships between serum VEGF and platelet counts, the presence of intra-coronary thrombi, time to intervention and markers of myocardial necrosis. ► We conclude that serum VEGF levels assessed early after the onset of myocardial infarction reflect not only tissue ischaemia but in patients with extensive intra-coronary thrombosis may derive from activated platelets.