Coronary flow reserve measurements in hypertension.

Abstract

Taken together, the diagnostic algorithm is leaded by a simple ECG stress test. In case of ST-segment depression the preferred image test should be stress ECG to bring patients at high risk for significant epicardial coronary artery stenosis to coronary angiography (and revascularization). In case of the lack of wall motion abnormalities (during stress-echo test) or absence of epicardial stenosis one may further assess coronary flow reserve with noninvasive Doppler harmonic echocardiography. For ultimate quantitative assessment invasive procedures, such as argon dilution or intracoronary Doppler techniques, represent the appropriate approach. Treatment of microvascular disease may be followed-up by these new noninvasive diagnostic approaches in future and also, at present, by monitoring ST-segment depression.