This section is designed to inform you about Corus™ CAD, a new test that physicians can use to assess coronary artery disease (CAD). The Corus CAD test result, along with other information your physician has about your age, gender, medical history and symptoms, may help her or him assess whether you have obstructive* CAD. Only your physician can order the Corus CAD test.
Understanding Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a very common heart condition in the United States. One in five deaths among Americans is caused by CAD.1
CAD can cause a narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries (vessels to the heart) that reduces blood flow to the heart muscle. This narrowing or blockage in the coronary arteries is often referred to as obstructive CAD.
As a result of the blockage, the heart does not get enough oxygen and chest pain can occur. In addition to causing chest pain, narrowing or complete blockage of the coronary vessels can lead to a heart attack or possibly death.
If you have chest pain, it is important to see a physician so that he or she can determine if you have a serious blockage in your coronary arteries.
* Obstructive CAD is defined as at least one atherosclerotic plaque causing ≥50% luminal diameter stenosis in a major coronary artery (≥1.5 mm lumen diameter) as determined by invasive quantitative coronary angiography (QCA).
- Lloyd-Jones D, Adams R, Carnethon M, et al. for the American Heart Association Statistics Committee and Stroke Statistics Subcommittee. Heart disease and stroke statistics--2009 update: a report from the American Heart Association Statistics Committee and Stroke Statistics Subcommittee. Circulation. 2009;119(3):480-486.