STUDY OF MORTALITY PATTERNS IN YOUNG PATIENTS: UNCOVERING THE ORIGINS OF TROPONIN ELEVATION

Abstract

Purpose: Myocardial infarction is one clinical condition in which serum levels of troponin may increase. In older populations, these sources of troponin rise have been extensively investigated, whereas in younger populations, fewer studies have been conducted.

Methodology: From June 2021 to June 2023, a retrospective analysis was conducted on individuals younger than 65 years old who presented with elevated blood troponin levels at two large tertiary care facilities. Those with coronary artery disease were excluded from the study. Using electronic medical records, the rise in troponin's cause was determined. The Social Security Administration recorded all-cause mortality in its death master file.

Results: There were 693 (64.1%) myocardial infarctions among the 1081 individuals who satisfied the inclusion criteria, whereas 388 (35.9%) had increased troponin levels due to other medical problems. After 2.5 years, patients whose troponin levels increased for reasons other than myocardial infarction had a greater risk of all-cause death. Central nervous system diseases, non-ischemic cardiomyopathies, and end-stage renal illness all increased mortality. Acute myocardial infarction was related with a higher death rate than myocarditis.

Conclusion: Numerous demographic factors contribute to the rise in troponin levels among younger individuals. Acute myocardial infarction has a lower mortality rate than other conditions that increase troponin levels.