diagnosis help

[LauraF, RN, ASN, CNA, LPN, RN]

Hi! I hope that someone can help me. My 73 year old Dad had a thalium stress test. His PCP's office called and said he needs to see a Cardiologist. But would not give any explanation. He got a copy of his report. Here are the points from the evaluation:

1.+ for cardiac ischemia

2.abnormal myocardioperfusion imaging study showing small distal inferior reversible ischemia

3.gated perfusion images show normal ventricular function, with ejection fraction of 69%

What does this mean, and is this an urgent matter? I am kind of annoyed that noone gave him an explanation. I have worked in Pediatrics for 15 years and do not not that much about adult medicine or cardiology. Thanks in advance for any light that can be shed on this subject.

Laura

[Dinith88]

Yes he needs looked at and is at high risk for a heart attack. By 'reversible' ischemia, it means that at rest his 'distal inferior heart' is adequately supplied with oxygenated blood. When stressed (whether through exercise, medication, etc. ) this same area becomes ischemic. It's 'reversible' because once his heart becomes 'rested' the ischemia goes away. THis means that a coronary artery is 'tight' and potentially an MI waiting to happen. A cardiologist needs to see him without a doubt.

His ejection fraction is normal.

That first part "+ for cardiac ischemia" is either pointing at the next statement (about the reversible ischemia) or saying there is an additional area that is ichemic..(?but fails to mention anything about it's being reversible, nor does it localize it...kinda weird.?)

He needs an angiogram. As soon as he can.

Check his meds...is he on anything? He should call his MD and ask if he should start taking asprin NOW.

[LauraF, RN, ASN, CNA, LPN, RN]

Thanks for the heads up on the angiogram. My Father has just recently had some friends who have had by-pass surgery and he was unsure what to expect on Tuesday. He has an appointment with a Cardiologist in another town. He has always been very healthy, but has recently been diagnosed with diabetes and is now dependent on insulin. It is really hard for me to see him have serious medical problems. He's my Dad and has never been ill. Thanks again for the information.