ABSTRACT
This is a common complaint that may be experienced by patients with an underlying cardiac pathology. Equally, it is a non-specific symptom that can be the result of a range of serious as well as relatively benign conditions. In addition to examining the patient, great importance is placed on a good history, focusing on the characteristics of the pain and any other associated symptoms. First-line investigations, particularly in the A&E environment, should include the following: serial ECG, CXR and cardiac enzymes/troponin T. Six major causes of chest pain are outlined in the table below.
