Prinzmetal's angina (variant angina)

Prinzmetal's angina, also called variant angina, is chest pain (angina) that occurs at rest for no apparent reason — unlike typical angina which usually follows physical exertion. Attacks of Prinzmetal's angina are brief but painful and occur most often at night.

The cause of Prinzmetal's angina is a coronary artery spasm, in which the walls of the artery briefly narrow (constrict). This temporarily reduces or obstructs blood flow to the heart muscle, resulting in chest pain. Coronary artery spasms can be associated with atherosclerosis.

Treatment of Prinzmetal's angina is directed at the underlying cause, such as atherosclerosis, and may include calcium channel blockers. Individuals with Prinzmetal's angina are at increased risk of heart attack and abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmia).