[Acute coronary syndrome--what can the family doctor do?].
Today, patients with anginal symptoms are characterized by the presence of an ST-elevation in the ECG and serum troponin level. Both patients with an ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and those with no ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) but raised troponin T or I levels are considered to be acutely endangered and to require continuous surveillance. In the absence of an increased troponin level, the emphasis is on conservative treatment within the framework of a stepped diagnostic approach. The family doctor can make a major contribution to prevention by giving high-risk patients and their relatives appropriate information about symptoms and explaining the necessary measures to be taken in acute coronary syndrome (ACS). In addition, his/her practice should be provided with the necessary technical facilities, and be appropriately organized, to carry out primary diagnostic and therapeutic measures in an acute emergency, thus ensuring prompt initial care.