Unstable Angina

Episode overview

Unstable angina is an acute coronary syndrome caused by myocardial ischemia without detectable myocardial injury. In this episode of Medicine Shelf Prep, Chris and Mars break down the classic presentation, how to distinguish unstable angina from stable angina and NSTEMI, the role of serial high-sensitivity troponins and ECGs, and the key management decisions you need to know for the Medicine Shelf Exam. Key topics include rest pain, new-onset severe angina, and crescendo angina; unstable angina versus NSTEMI; ECG and serial high-sensitivity troponin testing; aspirin, anticoagulation, statins, nitrates, and beta blockers; when invasive coronary angiography is needed; and common Medicine Shelf Exam traps.