[Differential diagnosis of acute coronary syndromes]

Abstract

In recent years there has been an explosion in the understanding of the complex basic mechanisms responsible for the development of acute coronary syndrome. This term is widely accepted and consistent with the common pathophysiological mechanism believed to be responsible for most cases of unstable angina and myocardial infarction, with and without ST-segment elevations. This review summarizes important recent findings, recommendations that are likely to be introduced in our present and near future clinical work. The diagnosis and differential diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome are based on clinical history, physical examination, electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, coronarogram and new serum markers of the patients. According to these findings is necessary to make risk stratification algorithm (high, intermediate and low risk patients) to integrate them into realistic management strategy.