Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatuses, which make use of at least one trained and tuned artificial neural network (16) to generate decision regions (32) in the n-dimensional space of n input variables associated with AMI. The set of measured variables (30) is related to the decision regions (32), in order to provide decision support. Preferably, the decision regions (32) are graphically visualized as areas in a two-dimensional diagram. Preferably, the artificial neural network (16) is trained by patient specific parameters. The variables associated with AMI (30) are preferably selected as biochemical markers and/or quantities derived from continuous/intermittent ECG/VCG. The performance of the artificial neural network (16) is preferably optimally tuned to clinical requirements on predictive values of the artificial neural network output in given prevalence situations.

Abstract: The overall invention categorizes patients with suspected acute myocardial infarction (AMI) with regard to a) AMI/non-AMI; b) infarct size (e.g. Major/Minor); c) time since onset of infarction; and d) non-AMI with/without minor myocardial damage (MMD). Generally, the above categorization is based on frequent timed blood sampling and measurement of selected biochemical markers of AMI with different rates of appearance in circulating blood. The computations are performed by using specially designed artificial neural networks. According to a first main aspect of the invention, early, i.e. generally within 3 hours from admission of the patient, detection/exclusion of acute myocardial infarction is provided. Furthermore, early prediction of the infarct size and early estimation of the time from onset are also provided.