Prinzmetal's Variant Angina
Prinzmetal's Variant Angina Causes
Prinzmetal's variant angina is caused by narrowing of the coronary arteries due to contraction of the smooth muscle tissue in the walls of the blood vessels; however what really caused the contraction is still not yet known.
Prinzmetal's Variant Angina Definition
Prinzmetal's variant angina also known as variant angina, Prinzmetal's angina or angina inversa is a syndrome characterized by cardiac chest pain at rest usually when lying in bed, which usually occurs in cycles.
Prinzmetal's Variant Angina Diagnosis
Echocardiography or thallium scintigraphy is used in the aim to diagnose prinzmetal's variant angina. ECG finding will demonstrate elevated ST segment rater than ST depression. Coronary angiography using injections of provocative agents such as ergonovine, acetylcholine or methylergonovine into the coronary artery is the most effective way in the diagnosis of Prinzmetal's variant angina. Once provocative substance is introduced exaggerated spasms are visualized in the image view confirming diagnosis of prinzmetal's variant angina.
Prinzmetal's Variant Angina Symptoms and Signs
Chest pain episodes are usually prominent at rest rather than when engage in activity. Other possible symptoms that come with the syndrome include upper arm pain, shortness of breath, tight chest, and jaw pain. Heart palpitations are present in some cases.
Prinzmetal's Variant Angina Treatment
Nitrates and calcium channel blocker are typically used in the treatment of Prinzmetal's variant angina.