Hyperhomocysteinemia in a very young Chinese male with acute myocardial infarction

Abstract

Homocysteine (Hcy) is a nonprotein α-amino acid. It is a homolog of the amino acid cysteine, differing by an additional methylene bridge (-CH2-). It is biosynthesized from methionine by the removal of its terminal Cε methyl group. Hcy can be recycled into methionine or converted into cysteine with the aid of B-Vitamins. Elevated Hcy levels (hyperhomocysteinemia [HHcy]) have been associated with increased cardiovascular disease and mortality rates. We present a case of acute myocardial infarction in a 25-year-old Chinese patient, associated with HHcy. His other risk factors for coronary artery disease were smoking and a moderately high low-density lipoprotein level. This case indicates that measuring plasma Hcy levels may be necessary in patients with acute coronary syndromes and premature atherosclerosis.

Keywords

• Hyperhomocysteinemia
• myocardial infarction
• risk factors
• young