Catecholamine Excretion in Myocardial Infarction

Authors:
  • RKRobert F. Klein
    Robert F. Klein
  • WTWilliam G. Troyer
    William G. Troyer
  • HTHoward K. Thompson
    Howard K. Thompson
  • MBMorton D. Bogdonoff
    Morton D. Bogdonoff
  • AWAndrew G. Wallace
    Andrew G. Wallace
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Abstract
Urinary excretion of norepinephrine and epinephrine was measured in 30 patients with myocardial infarction for five days after admission to a cardiac care unit. Patients with uncomplicated hospital courses or those with primary ventricular fibrillation or complete atrioventricular block showed a similar pattern, ie, high initial levels with a slope to normal range over the five-day period. Patients with multiple complications, particularly of a hemodynamic nature, showed lower initial levels and a different slope over the five-day period. Some instances of catechol elevation at time of psychological stress are presented.