Acute Coronary Syndrome Overview

Which type of acute coronary syndrome is typically associated with pathologic Q waves on an ECG?

What primary condition leads to the diminished myocardial blood flow in acute coronary syndrome?

Which of the following factors contributes to the rupture of atherosclerotic coronary artery plaques?

Acute coronary syndrome includes which of the following classifications based on ECG changes?

Which condition is often a precursor to acute coronary syndrome due to thrombus formation?

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)

ACS encompasses a range of conditions from ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) to non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and unstable angina.
Underlying pathology of ACS typically involves rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque and subsequent thrombosis of the affected artery.
ACS is primarily caused by reduced blood flow to the heart due to blockage or partial blockage of a coronary artery by a thrombus.

Classification of ACS

ACS is categorized into:
- ST-segment elevation ACS (STE ACS or STEMI)
- Non-ST segment elevation ACS (NSTE ACS), which includes NSTEMI and unstable angina (UA)
Following a STEMI, the presence of pathologic Q waves on the ECG is often indicative of transmural myocardial infarction.

Pathophysiology of ACS

Endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and formation of fatty streaks contribute to the development of atherosclerotic plaques within coronary arteries.
Plaque rupture and subsequent thrombus formation dramatically reduce myocardial blood flow and oxygen supply, resulting in ischemia and potentially myocardial infarction.
Vulnerable plaques prone to rupture usually possess thin fibrous caps and are often non-obstructive in nature, meaning they do not completely block the artery.

This quiz covers the fundamentals of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), including its classification into STEMI and NSTEMI, as well as the underlying pathology that leads to these conditions. Understanding the pathophysiology and risk factors associated with ACS is crucial for healthcare professionals. Test your knowledge on this critical topic in cardiology.