Acute Myocardial Infarction in Pregnancy

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease, and particularly ischemic heart disease, is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality in high-income countries. The incidence of acute myocardial infarction has been rising over the past 2 decades due to increasing maternal age and a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in the pregnant population. Causes of acute myocardial infarction in pregnancy are diverse and may require specific considerations for their diagnosis and management. In this narrative review, we provide an overview of physiologic changes, risk factors, and etiologies leading to acute myocardial infarction in pregnancy, as well as diagnostic tools, reperfusion strategies, and pharmacological treatments for this complex condition. In addition, we outline considerations for labor and delivery planning and long-term follow-up of patients with acute myocardial infarction in pregnancy.