Angiogram Interpretation

Hello

Earlier this year I underwent a stress EKG as part of a job related phycical.  Results showed ST segment depression and I was referred for a thallium test.  The thallium showed ischemia.  My doctor was very definitive telling me that I needed to have an angiogram and likely would have angioplasty at the same time.

The doctor who performed the angiogram determined that I did not require angioplasty or a stent.

I have had chest pain but because my job is dependent on passing the physical I've always denied that on every medical form and in every conversation with my doctors.

If I had been honest with the doctors about my chest pain (during and after exercise, sometimes at rest) could this have changed his interpretation of what he saw on the angiogram?  Does the test present absolute threshholds that indicate therapy (ie 70% stenosis) so that it didn't really matter what I said anyway?

Thank You.

[Cleveland Clinic]

45SFO,

The angiogram is the gold standard for chest pain caused form atherisclerosis or buid up of cholesterol in the major arteries of the heart.  Generally, the physicians interpretation should't really be affected too much since it is a picture of the artery.

Some people have chest pain from spasm of the arteries or even non cardiac causes. If your angiogram didnt reveal anything, there shouldnt be any contraindication to activities so you shoul dbe honest with your physicians about your symptoms so they can investigate them thoroughly.

good luck

[EchoTech]

No good will come out of lying to your doctor.   I can see why you lied, but having your life is worth more than having a job.  It did not come to that this time, but you may never know when being truthful may help you out.