A new rapid heart attack test could significantly accelerate diagnosis and treatment, potentially cutting waiting times in emergency departments, experts report.
Currently, suspected heart attack cases require a blood sample sent to a hospital laboratory to measure troponin, a protein released when heart muscle is damaged. Lab results can take up to two hours.
To shorten this delay, scientists have developed bedside troponin tests, some delivering results in just 10 minutes.
A recent study, led by Christchurch Hospital in New Zealand in collaboration with British Heart Foundation-funded researchers at the University of Edinburgh, evaluated these rapid tests. The tests analyze blood on a cartridge at the point of care.
Researchers reviewed data from 59,980 adult emergency admissions for chest pain across six New Zealand hospitals. Roughly half of the patients received standard care, while the rest were tested with the rapid point-of-care system.
Presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions in New Orleans, the study found that patients tested with the rapid method were discharged or admitted for heart attack care an average of 47 minutes sooner. Importantly, a 30-day follow-up showed no difference in outcomes, indicating the test is safe.
Dr. Sonya Babu-Narayan, clinical director at the British Heart Foundation and consultant cardiologist, emphasized the significance of the findings.
“Every minute matters during a heart attack,” she said. “And if you aren’t having one, you want reassurance or an alternative diagnosis as quickly as possible.”
She added: “Troponin is the telltale protein that leaks into the bloodstream when the heart is damaged. Measuring it is crucial for diagnosing or ruling out heart attacks. Laboratory results can take hours, so it’s exciting that the bedside test provides results within minutes without compromising accuracy or safety.”
Dr. Babu-Narayan also highlighted broader benefits: “Faster diagnosis is vital for patients and helps overstretched emergency departments ensure timely care for everyone.”
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