Have you been wondering why a routine physical or even routine cardiologist exam doesn’t include the Corus CAD test?
This blood test uses “gene expression” to quickly and safely determine when chest pain is due to obstructive coronary artery disease (clogged arteries).
Some patients are suitable candidates for this test, called the Corus CAD (coronary artery disease).
They have not been diagnosed with a previous heart attack; are not diabetic; have not had a CABG; are not currently on chemotherapeutic drugs, immune-suppressing or steroid prescription drugs.
Chest pain is quite a common symptom of “clogged arteries” (obstructive heart disease).
Another common symptom is undue fatigue or shortness of breath.
The Corus CAD blood test results are ready in 72 hours, and the test can be done in a doctor’s office.
So why isn’t this simple test part of either the routine physical or a heart patient’s routine visit to the cardiologist?
I asked this to cardiologist David N. Smith, MD, a board certified cardiologist with Premier Cardiovascular Care and Wellness in SC.
Dr. Smith explains, “I believe at this point the test is relatively new and most have not heard of its benefits yet.
“Moreover, the diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of the test fits best when the patient has non-acute signs and symptoms suggestive of obstructive coronary artery disease.
“Therefore, the test should not be used to screen every patient for obstructive CAD.
“Although the test has proven to be reliable in ruling out obstructive in stable symptomatic patients, the truth is it takes many years before new technology will be adapted into the guidelines by the American College of Cardiology or the American Heart Association.
“While numerous Corus CAD studies have been published in highly ranked peer-reviewed journals, it takes time, experience, and more randomized, controlled evidence-based trials before being completely accepted into standard of care.”
Dr. Smith is a published author, national lecturer and Yale-trained physician-scientist certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Cardiovascular Disease. From his basic science background combined with advanced clinical research training at the Columbia Mailman School of Public Health, he brings an integrated holistic approach to cardiovascular medicine.
Lorra Garrick has been covering medical, fitness and cybersecurity topics for many years, having written thousands of articles for print magazines and websites, including as a ghostwriter. She’s also a former ACE-certified personal trainer.
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