EVALUATION OF STRESS HYPERGLYCEMIA IN NON-DIABETIC PATIENTS WITH ACUTE MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION

Abstract

Introduction: Stress hyperglycemia frequently occurs during acute myocardial infarction (AMI) even in patients without previously diagnosed diabetes. This transient rise in blood glucose represents an acute metabolic response to physiological stress but is increasingly recognized as a marker of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Understanding its prognostic significance in non-diabetic individuals is essential for risk stratification and early intervention. Objectives: To evaluate the stress of hyperglycemia in non-diabetic patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction. Methodology: This observational study included non-diabetic adult patients admitted with AMI. Stress hyperglycemia was assessed using admission plasma glucose and the stress hyperglycemia ratio (SHR). Clinical outcomes including in-hospital mortality, heart failure, arrhythmias, cardiogenic shock, and length of hospital stay were recorded. Patients were stratified into normoglycemic and stress-hyperglycemic groups for comparative analysis. Results & Findings: Patients with stress hyperglycemia demonstrated significantly higher rates of adverse outcomes, including increased risk of in-hospital mortality, acute heart failure, and cardiogenic shock. Elevated admission glucose and higher SHR were strong independent predictors of complications. Stress hyperglycemia was also associated with prolonged hospital stay and higher need for intensive care support. Conclusion: Stress hyperglycemia is a powerful prognostic marker in non-diabetic AMI patients. Elevated glucose levels at presentation predict higher morbidity and mortality, emphasizing the need for early identification and tighter glucose monitoring in this population. Incorporating stress hyperglycemia into routine risk assessment may improve clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.