Cardiac Test List: A Complete Reference
Compartir
For patients and family caregivers, the array of cardiac tests can feel overwhelming. This reference list groups the major tests by category and explains what each measures.
Electrical Tests (Rhythm)
- Resting 12-lead ECG: standard rhythm and conduction baseline
- Holter monitor (24-48 hours): continuous rhythm recording at home
- Event monitor (weeks): patient-triggered rhythm capture
- Implantable loop recorder (months-years): for unexplained syncope or rare arrhythmia
- Tilt table test: for syncope workup
- Electrophysiology study: invasive, for complex arrhythmia
Structural Tests (Anatomy)
- Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE): standard ultrasound through chest wall
- Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE): probe through esophagus; better resolution for atria, valves, intracardiac masses
- Cardiac MRI: tissue characterization (fibrosis, edema, infiltration), chamber sizes, function
- Cardiac CT: structure, coronary anatomy
Functional Tests (Stress)
- Exercise treadmill test (ETT): ECG during graded exercise
- Stress echocardiogram: echo during/after exercise or pharmacologic stress
- Stress nuclear (SPECT): Tc-99m sestamibi imaging at rest and stress
- Stress cardiac MRI: vasodilator-induced flow imaging
- Stress PET: Rb-82 perfusion at rest and stress
Coronary Anatomy Tests
- Coronary artery calcium (CAC) score: non-contrast cardiac CT showing calcified plaque
- Coronary CT angiography (CCTA): contrast CT showing coronary lumen
- Invasive coronary angiography: gold standard; catheter-based contrast injection
- OCT/IVUS: intravascular imaging during angiography
Biomarker Tests
- BNP / NT-proBNP: heart failure assessment
- Troponin (high-sensitivity): acute injury, MI workup
- CRP (high-sensitivity): inflammation contribution
- Lipid panel + advanced: cardiovascular risk
- Homocysteine: in selected high-risk patients
- Lp(a): hereditary lipid risk factor
If you have chest pain, breathlessness on exertion or other symptoms that could be heart-related, speak to a doctor promptly. Once you know which test you need, our team can check availability and prices at a partner hospital.
When Each Test Is Right
| Clinical question | Tests often used |
|---|---|
| Chest pain (acute) | ECG + troponin (rapid) |
| Chest pain (chronic, suspect angina) | Stress test or CCTA |
| Palpitations | Holter or event monitor |
| Heart failure workup | Echo + BNP |
| Risk assessment without symptoms | CAC score, for some adults (ask your doctor) |
| Syncope (unclear) | Holter, tilt table, possibly loop recorder |
| Suspected cardiomyopathy | Cardiac MRI |
| Suspected sarcoidosis | Cardiac MRI + FDG PET |
| Murmur evaluation | Echo (TTE first, TEE if needed) |
Cost Comparison
Approximate cash prices:
| Test | US (cash) | UK (private) | Mainland China |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECG | $50-200 | £30-100 | ¥50-150 |
| Echo TTE | $400-1,000 | £250-500 | ¥500-1,200 |
| Echo TEE | $1,500-3,500 | £800-1,500 | ¥1,500-3,500 |
| Stress test | $300-1,500 | £200-600 | ¥500-1,500 |
| Stress echo | $800-2,000 | £400-900 | ¥800-2,000 |
| Stress nuclear | $1,500-3,500 | £800-1,500 | ¥1,500-3,500 |
| CAC score | $50-250 (ACC/AHA estimate) | £150-300 | ¥500-1,500 |
| CCTA | $500-1,800 | £400-800 | ¥1,500-3,500 |
| Cardiac MRI | $3,500-7,500 | £900-1,800 | ¥3,000-6,500 |
| Holter | $200-800 | £100-400 | ¥300-1,500 |
Chinese prices in this table are typical hospital list prices. Through SinoCareLink, a CAC score is US$250 (Shenzhen only), and coronary CT angiography is US$300 as an add-on or part of our US$499 Cardiovascular Health Screening package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there no "best" cardiac test?
Each test answers a different question. The right test depends on the clinical question, patient risk profile, and available alternatives.
Should I get a CAC score if I'm asymptomatic?
It can help adults over 40 with cardiovascular risk factors when the result could change a prevention discussion. Guidance differs, so ask your doctor whether it is worthwhile for you.
Will US insurance cover all these tests?
Most are covered when clinically indicated. Screening tests (CAC, advanced lipids) sometimes self-pay.
Are Chinese cardiac tests comparable to US?
Large cardiovascular centres such as Fuwai (Beijing), Zhongshan Cardiovascular (Shanghai), Anzhen and West China use equipment from the same international manufacturers as US hospitals; the exact equipment and protocols vary by hospital.
Need Help Booking?
SinoCareLink can book cardiac tests at a partner hospital or licensed international medical centre (confirmed with you before booking) and translate your reports into English. Flights, hotel and airport transfers are not included in the price; ask us what can be arranged. Contact us for a free consultation.