People being evaluated for possible heart disease are usually given simple tests first. Then more complicated ones may be used, if needed. Specific tests depend on the patient's particular problem(s) and the physician's assessment.

Some of these tests are noninvasive. That means they don't involve inserting instruments or fluids into the body. Those that do are called invasive tests.

Most of these tests are described in other sections of this guide.

What are some examples of noninvasive tests?

• Resting electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
• Signal-averaged electrocardiogram (SAECG)
• Chest X-ray
• Holter monitor (ambulatory electrocardiogram)
• Echocardiogram
• Exercise stress test
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)

What are nuclear imaging tests?

• MUGA scan
• Thallium stress test
• Technetium stress test
• Pharmacologic stress test 
• PET test
• Stress echocardiography

What are some other imaging tests?

• Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)
• Cardiac catheterization ("cath") — also known as coronary angiography

Related AHA publications:

• Heart and Stroke Facts
• Your Cardiac Catheterization brochure
• Printable sheets about various treatments and tests in Answers By Heart kit

Related AHA scientific statements:

• Angiography/Angioplasty
• Echocardiography
• Electrocardiography
• Exercise Testing
• Genetics/Genetic Testing
• Imaging
• Tomography, Electron Beam Computed