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Professional Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

microvascular dysfunction

Impaired function of coronary microvasculature affecting myocardial perfusion despite normal epicardial vessels.

Full Definition

Microvascular dysfunction refers to abnormal function of the coronary microcirculation, including arterioles, capillaries, and venules with diameters less than 500 micrometers. This condition can cause chest pain and myocardial ischemia even when epicardial coronary arteries appear normal on angiography. Microvascular dysfunction may result from endothelial dysfunction, smooth muscle abnormalities, or structural changes in the microvasculature. It is increasingly recognized as an important cause of angina, particularly in women, and can be assessed using techniques such as coronary flow reserve measurement or adenosine stress testing.

Usage

Usage note: Prefer full term over abbreviations; avoid confusion with macrovascular disease.

In Context

  • "The patient's symptoms were attributed to microvascular dysfunction rather than epicardial stenosis." — Cardiology consultation
  • "Adenosine stress testing revealed evidence of microvascular dysfunction." — Diagnostic report

Also known as

cardiac syndrome X microvascular angina

Contrasted with

normal microvascular function

Don't confuse with

epicardial disease vasospastic angina
mechanical circulatory support ← Back to glossary minimal lumen area

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