Ischaemia with no obstructive coronary arteries: a review with focus on the Asian population

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Cardiovascular Research
• Diagnostic Challenges

Background:

• Ischaemia with no obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA) is a recognized clinical entity with significant adverse outcomes.
• INOCA is associated with increased mortality, cardiovascular events, reduced quality of life, and high healthcare costs.
• Recognition and understanding of INOCA are growing in Western populations, but remain limited in Asian populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with INOCA.
• To investigate the prevalence and diagnostic uncertainties of INOCA in Asian populations.
• To identify barriers to INOCA diagnosis and management and propose strategies for improvement.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on INOCA diagnosis and management.
• Analysis of factors contributing to delayed INOCA diagnosis.
• Exploration of specific challenges in Asian populations.

Main Results:

• INOCA diagnosis and management remain challenging despite its prognostic significance.
• Prevalence and specific characteristics of INOCA in Asian populations are not well-defined.
• Multiple barriers hinder timely and effective INOCA diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusions:

• Addressing diagnostic and management barriers is crucial for improving outcomes in INOCA patients.
• Further research is needed to clarify INOCA prevalence and characteristics in diverse populations, especially in Asia.
• Implementing proposed strategies can enhance the diagnosis and management of INOCA.