Pathology of myocardial infarction

Myocardial infarction (MI) is an increasing problem, worldwide. An appreciation of its causes and morphology helps provide a basis for development of new interventions, as well as its management, and in the future prevention. Studies have shown that the myocardium does not suffer sudden and complete permanent damage, but rather that it takes time for the damage to start and to progress. It is this interval that is used to salvage myocardium, post ischaemic myocardial events, thus improving patient outcomes. This paper discusses the morphological findings at different time points and illustrates them.