Impaired Endothelium-Dependent Vasodilation of Coronary Resistance Vessels Is Associated With Exercise-Induced Myocardial Ischemia

Abstract

Impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation of the coronary microcirculation is associated with exercise-induced myocardial ischemia in patients without hemodynamically significant epicardial artery lesions. Endothelial vasodilator dysfunction extending into the coronary microcirculation may thus contribute to the ischemic manifestations of coronary artery disease during times of increased myocardial demand.