Evaluation of the 0 h/1 h high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T algorithm in diagnosis of non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) in Han population

Objectives A rapid 0 h/1 h algorithm using high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) for rule-out and rule-in of non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) is recommended by the European Society of Cardiology. We aim to prospectively evaluate the diagnostic performance of the algorithm in Chinese Han patients with suspected NSTEMI. Methods In this prospective diagnostic cohort study, 577 patients presenting to the emergency department with suspected NSTEMI and recent (<12 h) onset of symptoms were enrolled. The levels of serum hs-cTnT were measured on admission, 1 h later and 4–14 h later. All patients underwent the initial clinical assessment and were triaged into three groups (rule-out, rule-in and observe) according to the 0 h/1 h algorithm. The major cardiovascular events (MACE) were evaluated at the 7-day and 30-day follow-ups. Results Among 577 enrolled patients, NSTEMI was the final diagnosis for 106 (18.4%) patients. Based on the hs-cTnT 0 h/1 h algorithm, 148 patients (25.6%) were classified as rule-out, 278 patients (48.2%) as rule-in and 151 patients (26.2%) were assigned to the observe group. The rule-out approach resulted in a sensitivity of 100% and negative predictive value of 100%. The rule-in approach resulted in a specificity of 62.9% [95% CI (58.5–67.2%)] and positive predictive value of 37.1% [95%CI (31.3–42.8%)]. No MACE was observed in the rule-out group within 30-day follow-up. Conclusions The hs-cTnT 0 h/1 h algorithm is a safe tool for early rule-out of NSTEMI, while probably not an effective strategy for accurate rule-in of NSTEMI in Chinese Han population.