Decreased LAP score is found in: March 2007
**Core Concept**
LAP (Lactate Dehydrogenase) score is a measure of myocardial damage, specifically reflecting the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) isoenzymes from damaged cardiac cells into the bloodstream. LDH plays a crucial role in anaerobic glycolysis, and its elevated levels indicate cellular injury.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
A decreased LAP score suggests reduced myocardial damage. This could be due to several factors, including the absence of myocardial infarction (MI), less severe MI, or the presence of a condition that compensates for myocardial damage, such as anemia. In anemia, the increased red blood cell turnover can lead to elevated LDH levels, masking the decrease in LAP score.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because a decreased LAP score does not necessarily indicate a benign condition. It could also be seen in patients with severe MI who have died or undergone early revascularization.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because a normal LAP score does not rule out significant myocardial damage. The score may be normal in patients with minor MI or those with pre-existing conditions that affect LDH levels.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because a decreased LAP score is not a specific indicator of coronary artery spasm. While coronary artery spasm can cause myocardial ischemia, it may not necessarily result in a decreased LAP score.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A decreased LAP score can be seen in patients with anemia, which can mask the true extent of myocardial damage. This is an important consideration when interpreting LAP scores in patients with suspected MI.
**Correct Answer: D.**