A Myocardial perfusion imaging (nuclear stress test) is a nuclear medicine test of the heart. It shows blood supply to the heart muscle at rest and under stress. Typical effective dose 9 to 12 mSv, similar to about 3 to 4 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year).
General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.
Blood supply to the heart muscle at rest and under stress.
Chest pain, known heart disease.
Avoid caffeine for 24 hours; some heart medicines may be paused on your doctor's advice.
Typical effective dose 9 to 12 mSv, similar to about 3 to 4 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
3 to 4 hours. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.
Nuclear medicine
Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.
Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.
What does a mpi show?
Blood supply to the heart muscle at rest and under stress.
Why is a mpi done?
Chest pain, known heart disease.
How do I prepare for a mpi?
Avoid caffeine for 24 hours; some heart medicines may be paused on your doctor's advice.
Does a mpi use radiation?
Typical effective dose 9 to 12 mSv, similar to about 3 to 4 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
How long does a mpi take?
3 to 4 hours
Why is Myocardial perfusion imaging (nuclear stress test) done?
Chest pain, known heart disease.
How do I prepare for Myocardial perfusion imaging (nuclear stress test)?
Avoid caffeine for 24 hours; some heart medicines may be paused on your doctor's advice.
Is Myocardial perfusion imaging (nuclear stress test) safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 9 to 12 mSv, similar to about 3 to 4 years of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
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