Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
coronary calcium score
Quantitative measure of coronary artery calcification used to assess cardiovascular risk.
Full Definition
Coronary calcium score is a numerical measurement of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries obtained through cardiac computed tomography. The score is calculated using the Agatston method, which considers both the area and density of calcified lesions. Higher scores indicate greater plaque burden and increased cardiovascular risk. The test is primarily used for risk stratification in asymptomatic patients and to guide primary prevention strategies. Scores are typically categorized as minimal (0), mild (1-10), moderate (11-100), high (101-400), or very high (>400).
Usage
Usage note: May be abbreviated as CAC score in subsequent references.
In Context
- "The patient's coronary calcium score of 285 indicated high cardiovascular risk." — Risk assessment report
- "Coronary calcium score was zero, suggesting low probability of significant coronary disease." — Screening results
Also known as
CAC score
Agatston score
Don't confuse with
coronary CT angiography
calcium channel blocker