Risk factors for the complication of cerebral infarction in Japanese patients with acute myocardial infarction.

The incidence and risk factors for cerebral infarction in Japanese patients with acute myocardial infarction were evaluated. Seven (5.0%) of 140 patients with acute myocardial infarction suffered from cerebral infarction during their initial hospitalization. The incidence was slightly higher than those reported in Western countries. Anterior wall myocardial infarction and a past history of cerebrovascular disease were considered to be probable risk factors for the complication. A beneficial effect of anticoagulant therapy in preventing cerebral infarction in cases of acute myocardial infarction with those risk factors is suggested.