Clinical Approach to Coronary Artery Disease

Question 1

What three diseases are most associated with the greatest risk coronary artery disease?

Answer 1

Hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia

Question 2

True/False. Atherosclerotic coronary arteries dilate in response to activity to deliver more O2.

Answer 2

False - they fail to dilate and may actually constrict. This is why symptoms worsen with activity

Question 3

True/False. Angina due to cardiac causes generally worsens with inspiration.

Answer 3

False - worsening angina with inspiration is associated with non-cardiac causes

Question 4

What is chest pain syndrome?

Answer 4

Chest pain in patients >75yo that may be accompanied by fatigue, delirium, syncope, and falls

Question 5

What test should be run to rule out a pulmonary embolism?

Answer 5

D-Dimer (a positive test does not mean pulmonary embolism)

Question 6

What is coronary artery bypass graft surgery recommended?

Answer 6

In severe cases with at least 3 vessels having coronary artery disease, including the left anterior descending

Question 7

A patient is taking two medications to manage angina, but symptoms persist. What is the next best course of treatment?

Answer 7

Stent placement