What is one of the main diagnostic tests used for coronary artery disease (CAD)?

The electrocardiogram (EKG) is a crucial diagnostic test for coronary artery disease (CAD) because it assesses the heart's electrical activity and can reveal various abnormalities indicative of ischemia, or reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. During an EKG, physicians look for specific changes, such as ST segment depression or elevation, which can signal a myocardial infarction or other cardiac events.

While other tests may provide valuable information about heart structure or general health, they serve different purposes. A urine test primarily evaluates kidney function and the presence of substances like proteins or glucose, which are not direct indicators of CAD. Heart ultrasound, or echocardiogram, offers insight into heart function and structure and may indirectly suggest issues related to CAD, but it is not typically used as the first-line diagnostic tool. Similarly, a chest X-ray can help visualize the heart and lungs but does not provide detailed information specific to coronary artery disease.

Therefore, the EKG stands out as a primary tool in the initial evaluation of patients suspected of having CAD, playing a pivotal role in guiding further diagnostic evaluation and management strategies.