Stress testing in perspective.

Despite many advances in methodology, exercise electrocardiography does not reliably predict the presence or absence of coronary artery disease. However, with a physician-monitored graded stress test, significant non-electrocardiographic information of both diagnostic and prognostic importance may be obtained. Thus, if properly performed (with the results interpreted in the light of the total clinical picture), stress testing is a safe and extremely useful adjunct in the investigation and management of patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease.