unstable angina
Chest pain that occurs at rest or with minimal exertion, representing acute coronary syndrome without elevated cardiac biomarkers.
Full Definition
Unstable angina is a clinical syndrome characterized by chest pain that is new-onset, occurs at rest, or represents a significant change from previous stable angina patterns. Unlike STEMI or NSTEMI, unstable angina does not involve myocardial necrosis and therefore cardiac biomarkers remain normal. It represents an acute coronary syndrome requiring immediate medical attention as it may progress to myocardial infarction. The condition is caused by plaque rupture or erosion with partial coronary artery occlusion.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as UA in clinical documentation; distinguish from stable angina and NSTEMI in editorial contexts.
In Context
- "The patient presented with unstable angina, experiencing chest pain at rest for the first time." — Emergency department assessment
- "Unstable angina was diagnosed based on clinical presentation and normal troponin levels." — Cardiology consultation note