Thrombolysis in elderly patients

The elderly population consists of those over age 75 years and appears to represent the fastest-growing segment of the population. Intravenous thrombolytic therapy (TT) is the most common strategy for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in many parts of the world. However, TT carries a higher risk of intra-cranial hemorrhage (ICH) in the elderly patients. Primary percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and stenting (PCI) represents an important alternative in these elderly individuals with contraindications to TT. In developing countries, or in areas without availability of primary PCI, TT remains the only therapeutic modality. Dedicated randomized trials are needed to provide a comprehensive understanding of AMI management in the elderly group.