Coronary Spasm Testing with Acetylcholine: A Powerful Tool for a Personalized Therapy of Coronary Vasomotor Disorders

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Vascular Medicine
• Diagnostic Testing

Background:

• Coronary vasomotor disorders (CVD) are linked to ischemia and myocardial infarction.
• They involve transient hypercontraction of coronary vascular smooth muscle cells.
• Current diagnostic methods like the Acetylcholine (ACh) test have safety concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathophysiology of CVD.
• To evaluate the clinical role, safety, and prognostic implications of the ACh test.
• To discuss contemporary management strategies for CVD.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on CVD pathophysiology and the ACh test.
• Analysis of safety profiles and prognostic data related to ACh testing.
• Examination of current evidence on CVD management and personalized treatment approaches.

Main Results:

• CVD contributes to ischemia and myocardial infarction, particularly in non-obstructive coronary artery disease.
• The ACh test is the gold standard for diagnosing CVD, offering therapeutic and prognostic insights.
• Safety concerns associated with the ACh test limit its widespread clinical adoption.

Conclusions:

• Understanding CVD pathophysiology is crucial for diagnosis and management.
• The ACh test, despite safety concerns, provides valuable prognostic information.
• Personalized management strategies guided by the ACh test are essential for patients with CVD.