Which diagnostic test is considered the gold standard for diagnosing CAD?

Which diagnostic test is considered the gold standard for diagnosing CAD?

• A. Electrocardiography (ECG)
• B. Echocardiography
• C. Chest X-Ray
• D. Angiography

Answer: (D)

Direct visualization of the coronary arteries is the most definitive way to diagnose CAD, and that’s what coronary angiography provides during catheterization with contrast. It shows exactly where and how severely the arteries are narrowed and can be paired with immediate treatment, like stent placement, if needed. While an ECG can reveal ischemia or prior damage, and echocardiography can assess heart function and wall motion, neither shows the actual coronary anatomy. Chest X-ray cannot diagnose CAD either. So angiography stands as the gold standard because it directly images the vessels and quantifies stenosis.

Direct visualization of the coronary arteries is the most definitive way to diagnose CAD, and that’s what coronary angiography provides during catheterization with contrast. It shows exactly where and how severely the arteries are narrowed and can be paired with immediate treatment, like stent placement, if needed. While an ECG can reveal ischemia or prior damage, and echocardiography can assess heart function and wall motion, neither shows the actual coronary anatomy. Chest X-ray cannot diagnose CAD either. So angiography stands as the gold standard because it directly images the vessels and quantifies stenosis.