The acute coronary syndromes
Rivera-Gautier, G.; Delgado-Osorio, H.éc.
Boletin de la Asociacion Medica de Puerto Rico 95(5): 24-35
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-4849 PMID: 15008359 Document Number: 10052
The acute coronary syndromes (ACS) are today considered a continuum spectrum of conditions that, according to the clinical presentation, electrocardiographic findings, and presence of specific serum biomarkers are classified as unstable angina (UA), non-STsegment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The last two may further evolve to Q wave myocardial infarction according to the progression and extension of the ischemic event. The ACS account for approximately 1.5 million hospitalizations every year in the United States. The technological advances achieved in the last decades, particularly the development and availability of thrombolytic agents, and percutaneous coronary intervention techniques, have dramatically changed the management and outcome of these patients. Current guidelines of management of patients with acute coronary syndromes are directed to the different levels of evaluation and management, which starts with early recognition of symptoms, effective emergency services, prompt risk stratification, and appropriate early therapy.
Document emailed within 1 workday
