MESA score
Also written as: MESA — Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
A cardiovascular risk prediction tool that incorporates coronary artery calcium scoring with traditional risk factors.
Full Definition
The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) risk score is a cardiovascular risk calculator that enhances traditional risk assessment by incorporating coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores along with conventional risk factors such as age, sex, race, smoking, diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. This tool provides more accurate risk prediction than traditional calculators alone and helps guide decisions about preventive therapies, particularly in intermediate-risk patients where treatment decisions may be uncertain.
Usage
Usage note: Requires coronary artery calcium score for optimal utility.
In Context
- "The MESA score incorporating the patient's coronary calcium of 150 reclassified her from intermediate to high risk." — Cardiovascular risk assessment