A patient presents with chest pain that occurs during heavy lifting or physical exertion and is relieved by rest. An electrocardiogram (ECG) may show transient ST-segment depression. Which cardiovascular disorder is most likely responsible for these symptoms?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The given patient's symptoms of chest pain that occurs during heavy lifting or physical exertion and is relieved by rest are consistent with stable angina. Stable angina is characterized by predictable chest pain that occurs with exertion and is typically relieved by rest or nitroglycerin. The transient ST-segment depression on ECG is also a common finding in patients with stable angina, which reflects myocardial ischemia during episodes of chest pain triggered by exertion. In contrast, unstable angina is characterized by chest pain at rest or with minimal exertion that is of increasing frequency, severity, or duration. Acute myocardial infarction is associated with persistent ST-segment elevation or new Q-waves on ECG, and Prinzmetal's angina is characterized by chest pain at rest due to coronary artery spasm rather than exertion.