NSTEMI
Also written as: NSTEMI — Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction; a type of heart attack that doesn't show characteristic ST-segment changes on ECG.
Full Definition
Non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) is a form of acute coronary syndrome characterized by myocardial cell death without the typical ST-segment elevation on electrocardiogram. Unlike STEMI, NSTEMI typically involves partial blockage of coronary arteries and may present with more subtle ECG changes such as T-wave inversion or ST-depression. Diagnosis relies heavily on cardiac biomarkers like troponin levels combined with clinical presentation and ECG findings.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize all letters; avoid confusion with STEMI in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient was diagnosed with NSTEMI based on elevated troponin levels and T-wave inversion in leads V4-V6." — Emergency department admission note
- "NSTEMI management typically involves dual antiplatelet therapy and risk stratification for invasive intervention." — Clinical guideline document