Allison Clemens
April
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PACU Masterclass. Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) Pharmacotherapy: A Focus on STEMI Background

Lesson 1 of 8

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Background

Definition and Incidence

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) is an umbrella term used to describe a spectrum of clinical presentations, including unstable angina, non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)
Incidence of ACS is estimated to be 1.5-2 million cases annually in the United States.
Risk factors for ACS include: hypertension, diabetes, smoking, dyslipidemia, obesity, family history of coronary artery disease, and sedentary lifestyle.

Image: Bar graph depicting relative risk of ACS for the listed risk factors.

Pathophysiology of Acute Coronary Syndrome

Clinical Presentation

Chest pain (angina) is the most common symptom of ACS
Other symptoms may include: sweating, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, fatigue, and lightheadedness
History and physical exam are necessary to evaluate ACS
Risk factors for ACS include:
- Smoking
- Hypertension
- Dyslipidemia
- Diabetes
- Family history