Cardiology testing encompasses a wide range of diagnostic procedures used to evaluate the structure and function of the heart and vascular system. Here is a comprehensive list of common cardiology tests:
Non-Invasive Tests
1. Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG):
- Measures the electrical activity of the heart.
- Helps diagnose arrhythmias, myocardial infarction, and other heart conditions.
2. Echocardiogram:
- Uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart.
- Assesses heart structure and function, including the size and shape of the heart chambers, valve function, and ejection fraction.
3. Stress Test:
- Evaluates how the heart performs under physical stress.
- Types include treadmill exercise stress test, pharmacologic stress test, and nuclear stress test.
4. Holter Monitor:
- A portable device worn for 24-48 hours to continuously record the heart’s electrical activity.
- Used to detect intermittent arrhythmias and other cardiac abnormalities.
5. Event Monitor:
- Similar to a Holter monitor but used for longer periods (up to 30 days).
- Activated by the patient when symptoms occur to capture heart rhythms during.
6. Tilt Table Test:
- Evaluates how the heart and blood pressure respond to changes in position.
- Used to diagnose conditions like vasovagal syncope.
7. Cardiac MRI:
- Uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart and blood vessels.
- Assesses myocardial structure, function, perfusion, and viability.
8. Cardiac CT Scan:
- Provides detailed images of the heart and coronary arteries.
- Includes coronary CT angiography (CTA) to detect blockages in the coronary arteries.
9. MUGA Scan (Multigated Acquisition Scan):
- A nuclear medicine test that evaluates the function of the heart’s ventricles.
10. Ankle-Branchial Index (ABI):
- Compares blood pressure in the ankle and arm to assess peripheral artery disease (PAD).
Invasive Tests
1. Cardiac Catheterization:
- Involves threading a catheter through the blood vessels to the heart.
- Measures pressures within the heart chambers and evaluates coronary artery blockages.
2. Coronary Angiography
- A type of cardiac catheterization that uses contrast dye and X-ray imaging to visualize the coronary arteries.
3. Right Heart Catheterization:
- Measures pressures in the right side of the heart and pulmonary arteries.
- Used to diagnose pulmonary hypertension and heart failure.
4. Implantable Loop Recorder (ILR):
- Monitors Heart rhythm and rates at all times with ability for patient to mark events for review. Lifetime of ILR 2 yrs (+/- 6 months)
Blood Tests
1. Lipid Profile:
- Measures cholesterol levels, including LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.
2. Cardiac Biomarkers
- Includes troponin, creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), and myoglobin.
- Used to diagnose acute myocardial infarction.
3. B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) or NT-proBNP:
- Indicates heart failure severity.
4. High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP):
- Assesses inflammation and cardiovascular risk.
Specialized Tests
1. Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE):
- An ultrasound probe is inserted into the esophagus to obtain detailed images of the heart’s structure and function.
2. Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram:
- Uses dobutamine to stimulate the heart, mimicking exercise, while echocardiographic images are taken.
3. Nuclear Cardiology (e.g. SPECT, PET):
- Uses radioactive tracers to assess myocardial perfusion and viability.
4. Carotid Ultrasound:
- Evaluates blood flow in the carotid arteries to direct blockages or narrowing.
5. Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV):
- Measures the stiffness of the arteries.
6. Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET):
- Assesses the heart and lungs’ response to exercise.
7. Endothelial Function Testing:
- MAXPULSE
These tests allow cardiologists to diagnose a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, guide treatment decisions, and monitor the effectiveness of interventions.