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

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.