CAC progression
Also written as: CAC — coronary artery calcium
The increase in coronary artery calcium scores over time, used to monitor atherosclerotic disease advancement and guide therapy intensification.
Full Definition
Coronary artery calcium progression refers to the change in coronary calcium burden measured through serial CT scans, typically performed 3-5 years apart. Rapid CAC progression (>15% per year or >300 Agatston units) indicates aggressive atherosclerotic disease and higher cardiovascular risk, often prompting intensification of preventive therapies. CAC progression serves as a surrogate marker for plaque burden advancement and helps identify patients who may benefit from more aggressive risk factor modification.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'progression' rather than 'increase' to maintain clinical terminology consistency; CAC without periods when used as abbreviation.
In Context
- "Rapid CAC progression of 25% annually prompted escalation to high-intensity statin therapy and lifestyle counseling." — Follow-up imaging report
- "Serial coronary calcium scoring demonstrated significant CAC progression despite optimal medical therapy." — Cardiology consultation note