Question:

Which of the following pathophysiological events differentiates myocardial infarction from stable angina?

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Both stable angina and myocardial infarction (MI) result from reduced blood supply to the heart, but the key distinction is whether the heart muscle is permanently damaged.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Transient myocardial ischemia
  • Reversible myocardial injury
  • Irreversible myocardial necrosis
  • Increased myocardial oxygen demand
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Concept:
Both stable angina and myocardial infarction (MI) result from reduced blood supply to the heart, but the key distinction is whether the heart muscle is permanently damaged.

Step 1: In stable angina, there is only transient, reversible myocardial ischemia — usually brought on by increased oxygen demand (e.g. exertion) — which resolves with rest and does not kill the muscle.

Step 2: In myocardial infarction, blood supply is cut off long enough that heart muscle cells actually die. This irreversible myocardial necrosis is what truly separates an MI from stable angina.

Why the other choices are wrong: Transient ischemia, reversible injury and increased oxygen demand all describe angina, not the defining feature of infarction.

Answer: Option (3) — Irreversible myocardial necrosis differentiates MI from stable angina. (3)
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