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A comparison of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and sepsis |
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| AMI |
Sepsis |
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| Market issues |
Significant publicity surrounding and general awareness of the condition; large trials |
Lack of understanding among physicians and the general public |
| Diagnosis |
A relatively straightforward and relatively common diagnosis (electrocardiogram, enzymes, troponin), and one that can be made by generalists, not just cardiology specialists |
Complicated by a long list of signs and symptoms and few objective tools for validation |
| Comorbidities |
Generally single organ disease (notable exception when complicated by cardiogenic shock) |
Often chronic or acute comorbidities |
| Physician education |
Generalists have been taught to recognize the signs and symptoms of AMI; initial treatment is usually provided by emergency physicians, who are trained to treat these patients |
Sepsis patients often come 'second hand' from a specialist who may not be appropriately trained to diagnose, manage, and refer patients with sepsis |
Vincent et al. Critical Care 2002 6(Suppl 3):S1 doi:10.1186/cc1860 |
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