ACS
Also written as: ACS — acute coronary syndrome
Acute coronary syndrome, umbrella term for conditions involving acute myocardial ischemia.
Full Definition
Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a broad diagnostic category encompassing clinical conditions associated with acute myocardial ischemia, including unstable angina, non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). ACS typically results from atherosclerotic plaque rupture or erosion with subsequent thrombosis, leading to reduced coronary blood flow. The term is often used in emergency settings when the specific diagnosis is not yet determined but acute coronary pathology is suspected based on clinical presentation.
Usage
Usage note: Use as umbrella term when specific ACS subtype is unknown; includes UA, NSTEMI, and STEMI.
In Context
- "The patient presented with ACS and was started on dual antiplatelet therapy." — Emergency department assessment
- "ACS protocols were initiated pending troponin results and ECG interpretation." — Clinical pathway documentation