Evaluating new markers for faster diagnosis of acute coronary syndromes

Advantageous Predictors of Acute Coronary Syndromes Evaluation (APACE) Study

Observational University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland · NCT00470587

This study is testing new blood markers to see if they can help doctors quickly diagnose heart problems in patients with chest pain who have had symptoms for less than 12 hours.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment10000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Basel, Switzerland Academic / other
Locations13 sites (Brno and 12 other locations)
Trial IDNCT00470587 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to improve the triage process for patients presenting with acute chest pain in emergency departments by testing new cardiac markers alongside meticulous patient history. It focuses on patients who have experienced symptoms within the last 12 hours and compares the effectiveness of these novel markers to the current gold standard, high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T. Blood samples will be collected and analyzed to determine the potential for quicker detection or exclusion of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Follow-up assessments will be conducted at multiple intervals to monitor patient outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults presenting to the emergency department with chest pain or symptoms suggestive of myocardial ischemia within the last 12 hours.

Not a fit: Patients under 18 years old, those in cardiogenic shock, or individuals with terminal kidney disease requiring dialysis may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to faster and more accurate diagnoses of acute myocardial infarction, potentially saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise with similar approaches using novel cardiac markers, but this specific evaluation in a large cohort is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients presenting to the emergency department
* Typical angina pectoris or other thoracic sensations that are suspected to be caused by myocardial ischemia
* Symptoms at rest or minor exertion
* Onset of symptoms within the last 12 hours prior to presentation
* Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Age \< 18 years
* Cardiogenic shock
* Terminal kidney disease requiring regular dialysis

Where this trial is running

Brno and 12 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Myocardial InfarctionAngina, Unstablechest painmyocardial infarctionunstable angina
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.