Cervical Angina: An Often Overlooked Cause of Noncardiac Chest Pain.

JBJS Rev · Feb 01 2026 · Review

Japa JP, Zitser P, Ehioghae M, Yoon K, Lee L, Thiru S, et al.

MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, District of Columbia

Spine

SUMMARY — THE REDUCTIONThis review highlights cervical angina, caused by C6-C7 radiculopathy, as an underrecognized mimic of cardiac chest pain that requires careful history and exam to diagnose and can be managed operatively or nonoperatively.
Abstract, as published

» Chest pain is the second most common chief complaint in the emergency department.» Cervical Angina is an important cause of non-cardiac chest pain, and is often overlooked.» Cervical angina is believed to be caused by cervical radiculopathy of the C6-C7 nerve roots.» Diagnosis involves a thorough history and physical, ruling out cardiac causes of chest pain.» Both operative and non-operative management options are effective.

Featured in the 2026-09-05 issue.

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