Validity of exercise QRS scoring versus thallium-201 myocardial scintigraphy in diagnosis of coronary artery disease

ABSTRACT

Present study was designed to evaluate a new CAD index based on exercise-induced QRS changes [Athens QRS score] in 26 patients complaining of angina pectoris who underwent maximal treadmill exercise ECG and exercise thallium-201 myocardial scintigraphy. Athens QRS score sensitivity and 44.44% specificity in comparison with 43.7% sensitivity and 55.5% specificity of S-T segment depression. Negative Athens QRS score [< zero] detected CAD with 50% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The value of Athens QRS score was independent on the presence or absence of S-T segment depression. In was concluded that Athens QRS score is very useful and more reliable than S-T segment depression for diagnosis of CAD