Diagnostic and prognostic value

Abstract

In a patient presenting with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD), imaging tests serve several important purposes. The first clinical goal is to establish whether the patient has CAD, and if so, to determine its severity and extent. Accordingly, in combination with clinical characteristics, the imaging test should result in a change of probability of disease. Secondly, the test should provide information on the likelihood of future major cardiovascular events. Lastly, the observations should have impact on therapeutic management and ultimately help clinicians to improve patient outcome.