Identification of Acute Coronary Syndrome in the Elderly

Abstract

When older adults experience acute coronary syndrome (ACS), they often present with what are considered "atypical" symptoms. Because their symptoms less often match the expected presentation of ACS, older patients can have delayed time to assessment, to performance of an electrocardiogram, to diagnosis, and to definitive management. Unfortunately, it is this very group of patients who are at the highest risk for having ACS and for complications from ACS. This article aims to outline presentation, outcomes, and potential solutions of underrecognition of ACS in the older adult population.

Keywords: Acute coronary syndrome; Atypical symptoms; Chest pain; Elderly; Geriatric.