plaque burden
The total amount or extent of atherosclerotic plaque within a vessel or vascular territory, often expressed as a percentage.
Full Definition
Plaque burden quantifies the total volume or extent of atherosclerotic plaque within a blood vessel or entire vascular territory, typically expressed as a percentage of the vessel wall area occupied by plaque material. This measurement is obtained through advanced imaging techniques such as intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), optical coherence tomography (OCT), or coronary CT angiography with plaque analysis software. Plaque burden assessment is important for risk stratification, treatment planning, and monitoring disease progression or response to therapy. A high plaque burden, even without significant luminal narrowing, may indicate increased cardiovascular risk. Editors should distinguish plaque burden from degree of stenosis, as vessels can have high plaque burden with preserved luminal diameter due to positive remodeling.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the measurement method (IVUS, OCT, CT) when reporting plaque burden percentages.
In Context
- "IVUS analysis revealed a plaque burden of 65% despite only moderate angiographic stenosis." — Interventional cardiology report
- "The patient demonstrated high coronary plaque burden on CT angiography, warranting aggressive medical therapy." — Preventive cardiology assessment