Diagnosis and management of Acute Coronary Syndromes

Coronary heart disease and acute coronary syndrome remain predominant and the top cause of death in people over age group of 35 years

- Dr Mahantesh R. Charantimath

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) talks about a group of diseases in which there will be sudden reduction in blood flow to the heart. ACS includes ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), nonST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and unstable angina (UA).

These are usually caused by narrowing and plaque disruption in the coronary arteries (atherosclerosis). Rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque can lead to partial or complete blockage of the artery. This clot hampers the blood flow to heart muscles and thus reduces supply of oxygen. This leads to uneven angina or a complete blockage and consequential myocardial infarction (heart attack).

Coronary heart disease and acute coronary syndrome remain predominant and the top cause of death in people over age group of 35 years. ACS is associated with very high morbidity and mortality.