Insulin response and glucose tolerance in survivors of myocardial infarction.

Insulin response and glucose tolerance was studied in 25 adult patients who had survived acute myocardial infarction 2-24 months prior to study. The results were compared with 15 age and sex matched healthy controls. Mean fasting glucose and serum insulin levels were normal in both groups. These values were significantly higher in patient group during glucose tolerance test (GTT) done after 75 g of glucose load. Eight patients (32%) had abnormal glucose tolerance and hyperinsulinaemia. Another 6 patients had hyperinsulinaemia (total 14 patients--56%). This is thought to be due to co-existent potential diabetes in these patients. The frequency of abnormal GTT or hyperinsulinaemia was not related to serum cholesterol levels but showed a positive correlation with serum triglyceride levels.