Evaluation of exercise-induced QRS amplitude changes (Athens score) and their clinical value

Summary

The index of exercises-induced amplitude changes in a combination of Q, R and S waves, named Athens score, was tested in 213 patients, who underwent coronary angiography within 3 days of a maximal exercise test. Of the 155 cases with conclusive exercise test results, according to the coronary angiography document, 23 (14.8 %) were diagnosed as having no significant coronary artery disease (CAD); 27(17.4 %) as 1-vessel disease, 28(18.1 %) as 2-vessel disease and 77(49.7 %) as 3-vessel disease. The Athens score for them was 4.87±2.89, 0.02±3. 35, −1.70±3.68, −1.75±3.98 respectively,F = 19.65,P<0.01. An Athens score of 2 mm predicted CAD with sensitivity of 84.9 % and specificity of 78.3 % both being higher than those of ST segment depression (75.0% and 60.9 %. It was concluded that the Athens score was a promising index for improving the efficiency of exercise test to predict CAD.