Myocardial infarction with angiographically normal coronary arteries

Abstract

Myocardial Infarction with Normal Coronary Arteries (MINCA) is an important subgroup of myocardial infarction with a frequency of at least 3-4% of all myocardial infarctions. The interest and awareness of MINCA have increased recently due to the frequent use of coronary angiography, the description of Takotsubo stress cardiomyopathy and new sensitive troponin assays. Since myocarditis may mimic myocardial infarction it is essential to exclude this in patients with myocardial infarction with angiographically normal coronary arteries. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging is a cornerstone not only to establish the diagnosis but also an important tool in the search for different causes of myocardial damage. In the future, atherosclerotic burden, hemostatic function, characterization of stressors and inflammation will be important targets for research in this group of patients.