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Question:
What is the recommended frequency of nuclear stress testing?
I am 60-year old male with significant heart damage and low EF from a MI-like event 15 years ago. I recently moved and my new cardiologist is proposing a diagnostic stress nuclear test. In the past, such tests were only ordered in the presence of symptoms. What is recommended practice regarding frequency of stress nuclear tests?
submitted by Jay from Washington, DC on 2/21/2012
Answer:
by Texas Heart Institute cardiologist, Surendra K. Jain, MD 
There is no consensus among experts on frequency of myocardial perfusion imaging in asymptomatic patients. It is helpful in patients with chest pains or shortness of breath in determining any underlying coronary occlusive disease.
In someone with a low EF and a history of MI 15 years ago, it could be useful in determining any further coronary artery occlussive disease.
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Updated March 2012
