There are no set criteria to diagnose<unk> . Thorough history taking by a clinician can assist in the diagnosis of<unk> . In cases where symptoms of chest pain are present, identifying features that distinguish episodes of<unk> ic angina from traditional angina can aid in the diagnosis. Features such as chest pain at rest, a diurnal variation in tolerance for exercise with a reduction in tolerance for exercise in the morning, and responsiveness of chest pain to calcium channel blockers as opposed to beta blockers can be important clues. EKG can occasionally be used to diagnose episodes of<unk> . However, relying on EKG is not always possible due to the transient nature of<unk>  episodes. Due to the challenge of capturing episodes of<unk>  spontaneously, provocative testing to induce<unk>  during coronary catheterization can be used to make the diagnosis. Provocative testing relies upon the use of pharmacological agents that promote or trigger episodes of<unk> . Agents commonly administered include ergonovine and acetylcholine. Both pharmacological agents have vasoconstrictive effects on coronary arteries. However, in the clinical setting, provocative testing is not routinely performed. The reason for this is due to the adverse effects of these pharmacological agents. EKG findings When<unk>  causes an artery to undergo complete occlusion, an EKG might show evidence of ST-segment elevation in the leads indicative of that artery's territory. Transient ST-segment depression can also occur, usually in the setting of sub-total occlusion of an artery. Additional EKG findings in<unk>  include evidence of arrhythmias that might be induced by ischemia: ventricular premature contractions, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and more.
Coronary vasospasm
Coronary ischemia
Coronary occlusion
Myocardial stunning
Cerebral vasospasm
Hyperdynamic circulation
Coronary steal
Coronary thrombosis