How to know what tests tell you

Posted by brian oconnor on May 31, 1999 at 09:11:16
I had a pet scan done. The results describe a very mild defect involving the apical and inferoapical walls consisitent with very mild coronary artery disease. I'd like to know does this test and its result describe ischemia? Also, what tests are available to find out if a person has ischemia or is a likely canadidate for silent ischemia?
Thank You

Posted by CCF CARDIO MD - DLB on May 31, 1999 at 19:52:33
Dear Brian
It depends whether the defect is reversible, in which case it would describe ischemia or whether it is fixed, in which case it represents dead heart muscle tissue.
A PET scan is an excellent test to detect ischemia. Ambulatory is another way to detect silent ischemia.
I hope this has been useful. Feel free to write back with further questions. Good luck.
Information provided here is of a general nature.  Specific diagnoses and treatments can only be made by your doctor.  If you would like to be seen at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment with a cardiologist at Desk F15.

[daveo713]

A related discussion, perfusion defects was started.