Reverse redistribution phenomenon in thallium-201 stress tests: angiographic correlation and clinical significance

The reverse redistribution phenomenon (RR) with the apparent worsening of a stress-induced defect or appearance of a new area of relative hypoperfusion does not always indicate coronary artery disease as previously suggested. RR does not correlate closely with the degree of coronary artery disease, nor with the location of the stenosis. Multiple mechanisms are hypothesized wherein the "defect" may be located in the best or worst perfused area.