TABLE 6-1 - Absolute and Relative Contraindications to Exercise Stress Testing

Absolute:

Acute myocardial infarction (within 2 days)

Unstable angina (until medically stabilized)

Acute myocarditis, pericarditis, or endocarditis

Uncontrolled hypertension (resting SBP >200mmHg or DBP >120mmHg)

Uncontrolled tachy- or bradyarrhythmias

Decompensated, symptomatic congestive heart failure

Severe or symptomatic aortic stenosis

Acute/recent deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism

Acute aortic dissection

Recent cerebrovascular accident

Relative:

Moderate valvular stenoses (unless symptomatic)

Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy

Suspected left main coronary artery disease

High grade AV block

Acute illness, such as active infection, thyrotoxicosis, severe anemia

Inability to exercise adequately