Cardiac Diagnostic Tests: Stress Testing

Introduction

Cardiac stress testing is an essential diagnostic tool used to evaluate the heart's function and detect potential cardiovascular diseases. These tests are designed to assess how the heart responds to physical or pharmacological stress.

Types of Stress Tests

1. Exercise Stress Test

The exercise stress test is the most common type, involving controlled physical activity, usually on a treadmill or stationary bicycle. Key metrics monitored include heart rate, blood pressure, and electrocardiogram (ECG) changes.

• Procedure: Patient walks or runs while being monitored.
• Purpose: Evaluates exercise-induced ischemia and arrhythmias.

2. Pharmacological Stress Test

For patients unable to exercise, pharmacological agents such as dobutamine, adenosine, or regadenoson are used to simulate cardiac stress.

• Procedure: Medication is administered to stimulate heart activity.
• Purpose: Helps detect ischemia and myocardial dysfunction in non-ambulatory patients.

Interpretation of Results

Results are analyzed by assessing ECG changes, echocardiographic imaging, and other cardiovascular markers. Abnormal findings may indicate ischemia, infarction, or arrhythmia.

Indications for Use

Stress tests are recommended for:

• Patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD).
• Evaluation of exercise capacity in heart failure patients.
• Post-myocardial infarction risk assessment.
• Preoperative cardiac evaluation.

Conclusion

Stress testing plays a vital role in cardiac diagnostics, helping physicians determine the best treatment strategies for cardiovascular conditions.