Cold-pressure testing with PET MPI is used to assess what?

Cold-pressure testing in the context of Positron Emission Tomography Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (PET MPI) is primarily utilized to assess endothelial function. This involves exploring how blood vessels respond to stress conditions, such as changes in temperature and pressure related to cold exposure. The endothelium plays a crucial role in regulating vascular tone and response to various stimuli.

In this specific testing scenario, applying cold pressure can invoke a physiological response from the endothelium, allowing for the assessment of its functional capacity. A well-functioning endothelium will typically exhibit vasodilation in response to stress, indicating a healthy state, while impaired function may reflect underlying cardiovascular issues.

Understanding this role of cold-pressure testing is critical when considering cardiovascular health, particularly in the context of conditions like atherosclerosis, where endothelial dysfunction is often a precursor to more severe cardiovascular events.