carotid intima-media thickness
An ultrasound measurement of the arterial wall thickness used as a surrogate marker for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk assessment.
Full Definition
Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is a non-invasive ultrasound measurement of the distance between the intimal-luminal and medial-adventitial interfaces of the carotid artery wall. CIMT represents early atherosclerotic changes and serves as a surrogate endpoint for cardiovascular disease risk assessment. Normal CIMT values are typically <0.9 mm, with values >1.0 mm considered abnormal and >1.5 mm indicating the presence of atherosclerotic plaque. CIMT measurements correlate with coronary artery disease severity and can predict future cardiovascular events. The technique is particularly useful for risk stratification in asymptomatic patients with intermediate cardiovascular risk, helping guide decisions about preventive therapies. Serial CIMT measurements can monitor progression or regression of atherosclerosis in response to treatment.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate intima-media; CIMT is acceptable abbreviation after first use.
In Context
- "The carotid intima-media thickness of 1.2 mm indicated subclinical atherosclerosis warranting statin therapy." — Vascular ultrasound report
- "CIMT progression was monitored annually to assess response to aggressive lipid-lowering therapy." — Preventive cardiology follow-up