Profile of chronic and recurrent angina pectoris in a referral population

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Clinical Medicine
• Quality of Life Research

Background:

• Angina pectoris (AP) management aims for symptom relief, but some patients experience persistent or recurring symptoms.
• Understanding the characteristics and implications of chronic or recurrent AP is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
• Identifying distinct patient profiles within AP management is necessary to tailor care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and characterize patients with chronic or recurrent angina pectoris (AP) after coronary disease treatment.
• To compare baseline characteristics, medical history, and quality of life among patients with chronic AP, recurrent AP, and those free of AP.
• To determine independent factors associated with the persistence of chronic AP.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 1,109 patients with coronary disease and AP were surveyed at 6 months and 1 year post-catheterization.
• Patients were categorized into three groups: chronic AP, recurrent AP, and AP-free.
• Baseline data, including demographics, medical history, medications, revascularization status, and quality of life, were collected and analyzed using regression analysis.

Main Results:

• After 1 year, 19% had chronic AP, 11% had recurrent AP, and 70% were AP-free.
• Patients with chronic or recurrent AP had more single-vessel disease and less frequent revascularization.
• Chronic AP patients were younger, more likely women, had higher BMI, more comorbidities (depression, lung disease), and poorer quality of life.

Conclusions:

• Chronic and recurrent angina pectoris (AP) affect distinct patient populations with unique characteristics.
• These patient groups experience a significant negative impact on quality of life despite current medical care.
• Further research and tailored management strategies are needed for patients with persistent or recurrent AP.