Question

a 57-year old male patient presents with intermittent substernal chest and mid back pain. the pain began last week while he was working hard in his garden but gets better with rest. which of the following is the most likely diagnosis? a) unstable angina b) stable angina c) metastatic cancer d) myocardial infarction

Explanation:

Stable angina is characterized by chest pain (which can radiate to the back) that is triggered by exertion (like working hard in the garden) and relieved by rest. Unstable angina is more unpredictable and not as clearly related to exertion - rest pattern. Metastatic cancer - related pain would likely have other associated symptoms (like weight loss, history of primary cancer etc.) and not have such a clear exertion - rest relationship. Myocardial infarction pain is usually more severe, persistent and not so clearly related to rest in the initial presentation as described here.

Answer:

B. Stable angina