[Risk stratification using combined ECG, clinical, and biochemical assessment in patients with chest pain without ST-segment elevation. How long should we wait? ].

Introduction: We use clinical, ECG, and biochemical data to stratify risk in patients with chest pain without ST segment elevation. However, the prognostic performance of these studies in relation to time from onset of symptoms is unknown.

Patients And Method: In a single-center, prospective study, 321 consecutive patients who had been admitted in the emergency room with a suspected acute coronary syndrome without ST segment elevation were included in the study.

[Utility of the serum biochemical markers CPK, CPK MB mass, myoglobin, and cardiac troponin T in a chest pain unit. Which marker determinations should be requested and when?].

Background: The prognostic value of biochemical markers in relation to time since onset of chest pain was evaluated in an emergency room with a chest pain unit.

Methods: In a single-center, prospective study we included 321 consecutive patients admitted to the emergency room with suspected unstable angina IIIB and an evolution of less than 12 hours. Blood samples were collected for CPK, CPK MB mass, myoglobin, and cardiac troponin T assays 6, 12, and 18 h after the onset of pain.