A patient presents with crushing chest pain that lasts longer than 20 minutes, diaphoresis, and dyspnea. An electrocardiogram (ECG) shows ST-segment elevation in the anterior leads. Which cardiovascular disorder is most likely responsible for these symptoms?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The patient is most likely experiencing an acute myocardial infarction (MI) based on the presentation of crushing chest pain lasting longer than 20 minutes, diaphoresis, dyspnea, and ST-segment elevation on the ECG. These symptoms are consistent with the classic presentation of an ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), which is a type of acute MI that is characterized by prolonged ischemia leading to myocardial cell death. In this case, the ST-segment elevation in the anterior leads indicates myocardial damage in the corresponding area of the heart supplied by the affected coronary artery. This is a medical emergency that requires urgent intervention to restore blood flow to the affected myocardium and prevent further complications.