vasospasm
Sudden constriction of coronary arteries causing reduced blood flow, often occurring without underlying stenosis.
Full Definition
Coronary vasospasm, also known as Prinzmetal's angina or variant angina, is the sudden, intense constriction of epicardial coronary arteries that can cause transient coronary artery occlusion and myocardial ischemia. This condition can occur in arteries with or without underlying atherosclerotic disease and is often triggered by factors such as stress, cold exposure, cocaine use, or certain medications. Vasospasm typically presents with chest pain at rest and characteristic ST-segment elevation on ECG that resolves with the spasm, distinguishing it from typical effort-induced angina.
Usage
Usage note: Often requires provocative testing for diagnosis; distinguish from fixed stenosis which causes effort-related symptoms.
In Context
- "The patient's chest pain episodes were consistent with coronary vasospasm, confirmed by provocative testing with acetylcholine." — Cardiac catheterization report
- "Calcium channel blockers are the first-line therapy for preventing recurrent coronary vasospasm." — Cardiology treatment plan