Prinzmetal's angina and emotions: A neglected psychosomatic entity

Prinzmetal's angina, a form of angina precipitated by vasoconstriction or spasm, appears to be a somatic phenomenon, but there is evidence, from research and case reports, of a major psychological component. In this study, individuals with Prinzmetal's angina were interviewed to determine the nature of their interpersonal relationships and their intrapsychic state at the time of onset of their chest pain. In addition, short developmental histories were obtained. The authors found that onset of chest pain was related to experiencing intense affect, and multiple levels of interpersonal and intrapsychic conflict, with strong conscious and unconscious, emotional and ideational links to previous traumas.