What diagnostic test can confirm coronary artery disease in patients experiencing angina?

Coronary angiography is the definitive diagnostic test that can confirm coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients who are experiencing angina. This procedure involves inserting a catheter into the coronary arteries and using a contrast dye to visualize blockages or narrowing in the arteries through imaging techniques. By providing a clear picture of the coronary arteries, coronary angiography allows for direct observation of any obstructions, confirming the presence and extent of CAD.

In contrast, while other tests may provide valuable information, they do not offer the same level of specificity for diagnosing coronary artery disease. An echocardiogram primarily assesses the heart's structure and function using ultrasound, making it useful for evaluating heart conditions but not as definitive for diagnosing CAD. A stress test evaluates how the heart performs under physical stress but may only suggest the likelihood of CAD. An electrocardiogram (ECG) measures electrical activity in the heart and can indicate issues like ischemia but does not directly visualize the arteries. Thus, coronary angiography remains the gold standard for diagnosing coronary artery disease in patients with angina.