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Published on: February 3, 2021
Psychological burden in patients with angina and unobstructed coronary arteries-underestimated, underexplored,
Peter Ong1, Astrid Hubert2, Zineb Moussaoui2
1Department of Cardiology and Angiology, Robert-Bosch-Krankenhaus, Auerbachstr. 110, 70376, Stuttgart, Germany. Peter.Ong@rbk.de.
Insights
Patients with angina and unobstructed coronary arteries (ANOCA) face diagnostic challenges and psychological distress. This review highlights the need for comprehensive care, addressing psychological factors in coronary vasomotor disorders.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Psychosomatic Medicine
Background:
- Angina and unobstructed coronary arteries (ANOCA) present a significant clinical challenge.
- Patients often experience prolonged diagnostic journeys and suboptimal management.
- The psychological burden in ANOCA patients is frequently underestimated and undertreated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a new perspective on the pathophysiology of coronary vasomotor disorders.
- To emphasize the role of psychological risk factors in ANOCA.
- To advocate for comprehensive, interdisciplinary care models for ANOCA patients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on pathophysiology and psychological aspects of ANOCA.
- Analysis of current diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
- Synthesis of evidence regarding psychological sequelae.
Main Results:
- Coronary vasomotor disorders are complex, influenced by psychological factors.
- Current management strategies are often inadequate, leading to persistent symptoms and psychological distress.
- A significant gap exists in addressing the psychological burden associated with ANOCA.
Conclusions:
- Comprehensive care integrating psychological support is crucial for ANOCA patients.
- Interdisciplinary ANOCA clinics are proposed as an optimal model for patient management.
- Further research is needed to fully understand and treat the psychological dimensions of ANOCA.
Abstract:
Patients with angina and unobstructed coronary arteries (ANOCA) are frequently encountered in clinical practice. These cases represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge and are often characterized by a long patient journey until a diagnosis of coronary vasomotor disorders is established. Moreover, the unsatisfactory management of such patients leads to insecurity, ongoing symptoms, and psychological sequelae such as anxiety or depression. Currently, the psychological burden in patients with ANOCA is underestimated, underexplored, and undertreated. This review gives a new perspective on the pathophysiology of coronary vasomotor disorders including psychological risk factors and calls for comprehensive care by interdisciplinary ANOCA clinics.
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