Revised guidelines for the management of non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndromes

Curr Cardiol Rep. 2003 Jul;5(4):289-95. doi: 10.1007/s11886-003-0065-5.

Abstract

Unstable angina (UA) and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) refer to a spectrum of acute severe cardiac disorders characterized by myocardial oxygen demand and supply mismatch, caused by atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. Patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes represent a major medical problem, accounting for 2.5 million hospitalizations and 500000 deaths annually in the United States alone. Of these, 1.5 million have a final diagnosis of UA, and myocardial infarction (ST-segment and non-ST-segment elevation) accounts for the remaining 1 million. The management of UA/NSTEMI presents a challenge to the cardiologist because treatment strategies continue to evolve. A number of trials have now assessed the safety and efficacy of early revascularization strategies in the treatment of patients with UA/NSTEMI, whereas others have focused on pharmacologic adjunctive therapy. An optimal single strategy encompassing most patients' needs is not clear. This review focuses on the revised American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines for the management of patients presenting with UA/NSTEMI.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • American Heart Association
  • Angina, Unstable / diagnosis
  • Angina, Unstable / physiopathology*
  • Angina, Unstable / therapy*
  • Cardiology / standards*
  • Electrocardiography*
  • Humans
  • Myocardial Infarction / diagnosis
  • Myocardial Infarction / physiopathology*
  • Myocardial Infarction / therapy*
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic / standards*
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians' / standards*
  • Societies, Medical / standards
  • Syndrome
  • United States