Intermittent ST-segment depressions during adenosine stress test
Bernies van der Hiel1, Arthur J H A Scholte, Marcel P M Stokkel
1Department of Nuclear Medicine, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
Clinical Nuclear Medicine
|November 22, 2007
Summary
ST-segment depression during adenosine stress tests typically indicates severe 3-vessel disease. This case report highlights intermittent ST depression, possibly caused by coronary spasm, in a patient with this condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Diagnostic Testing
- Ischemic Heart Disease
Background:
- ST-segment depression during myocardial perfusion stress testing often signifies significant coronary artery disease.
- Adenosine stress testing is a common method for evaluating myocardial ischemia.
Observation:
- A case report details a patient with severe 3-vessel disease experiencing intermittent ST-segment depression.
- These electrocardiogram changes occurred during an adenosine stress test.
Findings:
- The intermittent nature of the ST-segment depression was unusual.
- Coronary artery spasm induced by adenosine is proposed as the explanation.
Implications:
- This case suggests coronary spasm should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intermittent ST depression during adenosine stress tests.
- Further investigation into adenosine-induced coronary spasm in severe 3-vessel disease may be warranted.
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