Acute coronary syndromes
Brian A Bergmark1, Njambi Mathenge2, Piera A Merlini3
1TIMI Study Group, Cardiovascular Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
Insights
Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) diagnosis and treatment have advanced, but ischaemic heart disease remains a leading cause of death. High-sensitivity troponin assays aid rapid rule-out for myocardial infarction, with dual antiplatelet therapy and secondary prevention crucial.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease is the leading global cause of death, primarily due to ischaemic heart disease.
- Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) represent a significant portion of cardiovascular mortality.
- Despite progress, evolving evidence necessitates updated clinical guidance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a clinically relevant overview of acute coronary syndromes (ACS).
- To summarize key scientific advances in ACS pathobiology, diagnosis, and management.
- To address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ACS care.
Main Methods:
- Review of current scientific literature and clinical guidelines.
- Analysis of diagnostic advancements, including high-sensitivity troponin assays.
- Evaluation of therapeutic strategies, including dual antiplatelet therapy and secondary prevention.
Main Results:
- High-sensitivity troponin assays facilitate rapid rule-out algorithms for non-ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).
- Dual antiplatelet therapy is recommended for 12 months post-ACS.
- Intensive secondary prevention, including lipid-lowering therapy, is critical.
Conclusions:
- Continuous evolution of scientific evidence impacts ACS diagnosis and management.
- Adapting care strategies is essential, particularly in light of global health events like the COVID-19 pandemic.
- A comprehensive understanding of ACS pathobiology and management is vital for reducing mortality.
Abstract:
Although substantial progress has been made in the diagnosis and treatment of acute coronary syndromes, cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death globally, with nearly half of these deaths due to ischaemic heart disease. The broadening availability of high-sensitivity troponin assays has allowed for rapid rule-out algorithms in patients with suspected non-ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Dual antiplatelet therapy is recommended for 12 months following an acute coronary syndrome in most patients, and additional secondary prevention measures including intensive lipid-lowering therapy (LDL-C <1·4 mmol/L), neurohormonal agents, and lifestyle modification, are crucial. The scientific evidence for diagnosis and management of acute coronary syndromes continues to evolve rapidly, including adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has impacted all aspects of care. This Seminar provides a clinically relevant overview of the pathobiology, diagnosis, and management of acute coronary syndromes, and describes key scientific advances.
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