Cardio symptoms but which test is best for me?

[Tree222]

I want to have a diagnositic test for a baseline of my heart function since I have an autoimmune disease, Sjogrens Syndrome, vasculitis, anemia and GERD.  I'm a bit concerned about the nuclear perfusion tests in case something causes the inflammation to flare.  Should this be a concern?  Which diagnostic test would be best to test for artery blockage the thallium or the MIBI? or should I start with a stress echo?  I have had some minor chest pain, a dull pain down my left arm, and some upper central back pain.   I don't want to wait until I have a heart attack.  My 75 year old dad just had triple bypass surgery last week after an MI.  Thank you!  Tree

[Tree222]

Are there any nuclear perfustion tests that may cause complications due to my systemic inflammation?  Are you saying it's best if a physician/surgeon perform the test versus a technician?  Thank you.

[Annette Quick, M.D.]

I don't have enough information to answer the question. It depends on who is doing the test. There is variability in regions and within groups so this is best decided by your doctor.