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.

PubMed

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.

Related Concept Videos

Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction01:30

Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) encompasses a spectrum of heart conditions caused by sudden obstruction of coronary arteries, typically resulting from the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque and subsequent thrombus (blood clot) formation. This obstruction can lead to partial or complete blockage of blood flow, causing varying degrees of myocardial ischemia or infarction.ACS includes the following clinical entities:Unstable Angina (UA)Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI)ST-Elevation...
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Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations01:19

Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations

The pathophysiology of Acute Coronary Syndrome [ACD] involves several key processes:The main underlying cause of ACD is atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of lipid-laden plaques within the coronary arteries.As the atherosclerotic plaque grows in the coronary artery, it may become unstable due to the formation of a lipid-rich core and a thin fibrous cap. Inflammatory cells within the plaque, such as macrophages, secrete enzymes that degrade the...
64
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies01:30

Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies

Diagnosing acute coronary syndrome or ACS begins with a thorough patient history. Notable symptoms include central, crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back, along with shortness of breath, sweating (diaphoresis), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations.It is crucial to note any history of cardiac illnesses and assess risk factors, including age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle.During physical examination, vital...
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Acute Coronary Syndrome V: Nursing Management01:26

Acute Coronary Syndrome V: Nursing Management

Nursing Assessment:Nursing management of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) involves taking the patient's history, focusing on primary complaints such as chest pain, dyspnea, and excessive sweating (diaphoresis), as well as other symptoms like back or jaw pain, nausea, vomiting, palpitations, dizziness, and fatigue. The nurse also reviews the patient's history of cardiac events, risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, smoking, family history, and current medications.In the objective assessment,...
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Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations01:30

Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a primary health risk worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, resulting in diminished blood supply to the heart muscle.The clinical manifestations of CAD vary widely, from asymptomatic stages to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.Angina Pectoris: The Warning...
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Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care01:28

Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care

IntroductionThe management of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) aims to minimize myocardial damage, preserve myocardial function, and prevent complications.Initial ManagementInpatient management involves continuous cardiac monitoring, preferably in an ICU, focusing on blood pressure, serum sodium, potassium, and creatinine levels, and urine output. Ongoing pharmacologic management is crucial for stabilizing the patient.Supplemental Oxygen: Administer supplemental oxygen if oxygen saturation is...
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