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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

Acute coronary syndrome is a term used for any condition brought on by sudden, reduced blood flow to the heart. Acute coronary syndrome can describe chest pain you feel during a heart attack or chest pain you feel while you're at rest or doing light physical activity (unstable angina). Acute coronary syndrome is usually diagnosed in an emergency room or hospital.

Acute coronary syndrome is treatable if diagnosed quickly. Acute coronary syndrome treatments vary, depending on your signs, symptoms and health condition.

References
  1. Acute coronary syndrome. American Heart Association. http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3010002. Accessed Feb. 7, 2008.
  2. Achar SA, et al. Diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome. American Family Physician. 2005;72(1):119-126.
  3. Acute coronary syndromes: A national clinical guideline. National Guideline Clearinghouse. http://www.guideline.gov/summary/summary.aspx?doc_id=10585. Accessed Nov. 7, 2007.
  4. Rackley CE, et al. The role of plaque ruptures in acute coronary syndromes. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 18, 2008.
  5. Ryan TJ, et al. Management of suspected acute coronary syndrome in the emergency department. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 18, 2008.
  6. Rosenson RS. Cholesterol lowering after an acute coronary syndrome. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Jan. 18, 2008.

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Nov. 6, 2008

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