Microvascular Dysfunction in Women with Non-Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease

This study focuses on the prevalence and clinical significance of microvascular dysfunction in women who present with chest pain but do not have obstructive coronary artery disease. Although these patients are often reassured following standard diagnostic testing, a large proportion continue to experience persistent symptoms without a clear explanation.

Using invasive coronary function testing, we performed a detailed assessment of the function of the small blood vessels in the heart. Our findings show that a substantial proportion of these women have underlying microvascular abnormalities, including impaired vasodilation and increased vascular resistance. In addition, we identified subgroups with vasospastic components that frequently remain undetected through conventional diagnostic methods.

These findings highlight that non-obstructive coronary artery disease is not a benign condition, but rather one that may be associated with reduced quality of life and an increased risk of adverse outcomes, including the development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Our study emphasizes the importance of improved diagnostic strategies and targeted referral to specialized centers. Future research will focus on the development of non-invasive diagnostic methods and biomarkers to enable earlier and more accurate identification of microvascular dysfunction.