Which test can be used to diagnose a Heart Attack (MI) if ST Elevation is present?

An EKG, or electrocardiogram, is the primary tool used to diagnose a heart attack (myocardial infarction or MI) when ST elevation is detected. The presence of ST segment elevation in the EKG is a direct indication of acute myocardial ischemia, which occurs during a heart attack. This elevation signifies that a portion of the heart muscle is not receiving enough blood due to an obstruction in the coronary arteries, prompting the immediate need for further intervention.

In contrast, while angiograms can visualize blood vessels and may confirm blockages in blood flow, and CT scans can provide imaging of the heart and surrounding structures, these tests do not provide the initial functional assessment and immediate diagnosis that an EKG offers in the context of an acute event. A Holter monitor is useful for long-term cardiac monitoring and rhythm assessment but is not used for immediate diagnosis of heart attacks. The rapid and accurate identification of ST segment elevation on an EKG is crucial for timely medical intervention and treatment.