Ischemia (is-KE'me-ah) is an inadequate blood flow to a part of the
body. It is caused by constriction or blockage of the blood vessels
supplying it. The cells do not receive an adequate supply of oxygen.
Myocardial ischemia is the lack of blood flow
and oxygen to the myocardium (heart muscle).
When arteries are narrowed by coronary artery disease, less blood
and oxygen reach the heart muscle. This can lead to a range of conditions
from angina to heart attack. Collectively these conditions are called acute
coronary syndrome.
