Classification of ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction, acute pericarditis, and benign early repolarization

Reperfusion therapy improves survival of patients with ST elevation early a cute myocardial infarction (STEAMI). In prehospital electrocardiograph) (EC G), a key component of clinical decision support for patients with symptoms suggesting acute coronary syndromes would be an automated quick and accura te diagnosis of STEAMI. Since such a computerized algorithm must consider S T segment elevation criteria, its development is challenged by cardiac cond itions other than STEAMI. Confounders. such as acute pericarditis and benig n early repolarization, degrade the performance of such algorithms. This st udy analyzed ST elevation characteristics in three diagnostic categories: S TEAMI, acute pericarditis, and benign early repolarization. A statistical t ree classification method was used to obtain a satisfactory classification among STEAMI and the other two groups.