Microvascular angina is common among patients with signs and symptoms of acute coronary syndrome and is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Unfortunately, microvascular is often under-recognized in clinical settings. The diagnosis of microvascular angina relies on assessment of the functional status of the coronary microvasculature. Invasive strategies include acetylcholine provocation, intracoronary Doppler ultrasound, and intracoronary thermodilution; noninvasive strategies include cardiac positron emission tomography (PET), cardiac magnetic resonance, and Doppler echocardiography. Once the diagnosis of microvascular angina is established, treatment is focused on improving symptoms and reducing future risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events. Pharmacologic options and lifestyle modifications for patients with microvascular angina are similar to those for patients with coronary artery disease.
Keywords: Cardiac syndrome X; Microvascular angina.