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Published on: March 15, 2022
Microvascular Angina: Diagnosis and Management
Haider Aldiwani1,2, Suzan Mahdai2, Ghaith Alhatemi3
1Barbra Streisand Women's Heart Center, Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Los Angeles, California, US.
Abstract:
Recognition of suspected ischaemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease - termed INOCA - has increased over the past decades, with a key contributor being microvascular angina. Patients with microvascular angina are at higher risk for major adverse cardiac events including MI, stroke, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and death but to date there are no clear evidence-based guidelines for diagnosis and treatment. Recently, the Coronary Vasomotion Disorders International Study Group proposed standardised criteria for diagnosis of microvascular angina using invasive and non-invasive approaches. The management strategy for remains empirical, largely due to the lack of high-levelevidence- based guidelines and clinical trials. In this review, the authors will illustrate the updated approach to diagnosis of microvascular angina and address evidence-based pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for patients with the condition.
Insights
Microvascular angina, a cause of chest pain without obstructive coronary artery disease, lacks clear treatment guidelines. This review details updated diagnostic criteria and evidence-based treatments for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Ischaemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA) is increasingly recognized.
- Microvascular angina is a significant contributor to INOCA, posing higher risks for major adverse cardiac events.
- Current diagnosis and treatment lack evidence-based guidelines, leading to empirical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present an updated approach for diagnosing microvascular angina.
- To discuss evidence-based pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for microvascular angina.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature and proposed standardized diagnostic criteria by the Coronary Vasomotion Disorders International Study Group.
- Inclusion of both invasive and non-invasive diagnostic approaches.
- Synthesis of current evidence for treatment strategies.
Main Results:
- Standardized diagnostic criteria for microvascular angina have been proposed.
- A gap exists in high-level evidence for treatment, necessitating an updated review.
- Pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options are being explored.
Conclusions:
- Accurate diagnosis of microvascular angina is crucial for risk stratification.
- Evidence-based guidelines are needed to optimize management.
- This review provides an updated perspective on diagnosis and treatment options.
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