Selected topics in exercise stress testing

More than ever before, exercise stress testing (EST) has become a focus for primary care physicians. But there are definite indications and contraindications for EST administration. Criteria may include when cardiology referrals should be made and what role the family physician should play in follow-up with coronary artery disease patients. There also are considerations for using EST for individuals with atypical chest pain or with patients after bypass surgery, angioplasty, or the coronary artery disease diagnosis. There even are distinct criteria for administering EST to women. This article will attempt to examine the numerous factors surrounding EST's growing use by primary care physicians.