[Stable coronary artery disease becomes chronic coronary syndrome]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Atherosclerosis Research

Background:

• The term "stable coronary artery disease" is being replaced by "chronic coronary syndrome" (CCS).
• Coronary artery atherosclerosis is a dynamic process, not always static.
• A stable process can transition to acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight key updates in the 2019 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines for chronic coronary syndrome.
• To explain the rationale behind the terminology shift from stable coronary artery disease to CCS.

Main Methods:

• Commentary on the 2019 ESC guidelines.
• Review of the underlying pathophysiology of coronary artery disease.

Main Results:

• The new guidelines recommend the term "chronic coronary syndrome" (CCS).
• The CCS terminology acknowledges the potential for instability in coronary artery atherosclerosis.
• The guidelines provide updated recommendations for managing patients with CCS.

Conclusions:

• The shift to CCS terminology better reflects the dynamic nature of coronary artery disease.
• Understanding this dynamic process is crucial for preventing acute coronary syndrome.
• The 2019 ESC guidelines offer a contemporary approach to managing chronic coronary syndrome.