Cardiac syndrome X: current concepts
Mukesh Singh1, Sarabjeet Singh, Rohit Arora
1Department of Internal Medicine, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL-60064, United States. drmukeshsingh@yahoo.com
Insights
Cardiac syndrome X, a complex condition with varied causes, presents a management challenge. Understanding its pathophysiology and psychological factors is key to improving patient care and reducing suffering.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Cardiac syndrome X is a heterogeneous clinical and pathophysiological entity.
- Patients present with recurring, disabling chest pain, often leading to extensive investigations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on the pathophysiology of Cardiac Syndrome X.
- To discuss current controversies in the management of this condition.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of available studies on Cardiac Syndrome X.
- Analysis of pathophysiological mechanisms and management strategies.
Main Results:
- Cardiac syndrome X involves diverse pathogenic mechanisms.
- Effective management requires careful evaluation of underlying causes and psychological aspects.
Conclusions:
- Addressing the heterogeneity of Cardiac Syndrome X is crucial for effective treatment.
- A comprehensive approach considering pathophysiology and psychological factors can alleviate patient distress.
Abstract:
Cardiac syndrome X is a heterogeneous entity, both clinically and pathophysiologically, encompassing a variety of pathogenic mechanisms. Management of this syndrome represents a major challenge to the treating physician. They often seek medical care because of recurring and disabling chest pain, which may imply repetitive and costly invasive and non-invasive investigations. A careful patient evaluation for underlying pathophysiologic mechanism and exclusion of other causes of chest pain along with attention to various psychological aspects is helpful in reducing the stress and suffering of these patients. This article reviews the available literature on the pathophysiology and current controversies surrounding the management of this difficult to treat condition.
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