Professional
Technical
IVT
coronary calcium score
CT-based measurement of coronary artery calcification used for cardiovascular risk stratification in asymptomatic patients.
Full Definition
A quantitative measurement of calcium deposits in coronary arteries obtained through cardiac computed tomography (CT) scanning, typically reported as an Agatston score. Higher scores indicate greater coronary atherosclerotic burden and increased cardiovascular risk. The test is primarily used for risk stratification in asymptomatic adults at intermediate risk when treatment decisions are uncertain. Current guidelines recognize coronary calcium scoring as a risk-enhancing factor that may influence preventive therapy decisions.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as CAC score in clinical practice.
In Context
- "A coronary calcium score of 150 reclassified the patient from intermediate to high cardiovascular risk." — Clinical decision-making note
- "Guidelines recommend coronary calcium scoring for select patients when statin decisions are uncertain." — Practice recommendation
Also known as
coronary artery calcium score
CAC score
Agatston score
Don't confuse with
coronary angiography
stress test