Coronary calcium score (CAC)

The coronary calcium score (CAC) is a test that measures the amount of calcium in the walls of your coronary arteries, which can indicate the presence and extent of plaque buildup—a key factor for predicting heart disease risk.

Indexed studies highlight that CAC scores effectively predict cardiovascular events across various populations. Higher scores are linked to increased risks of major adverse cardiac events, particularly in individuals with stable chest pain. The test is also useful in distinguishing between primary and secondary prevention scenarios based on the level of calcium detected, aiding in personalized treatment plans. Studies further reveal variations in CAC distribution by race, gender, and age, emphasizing its role in tailoring preventive strategies.

This score connects strongly to heart disease risk assessment and can inform decisions about lifestyle changes or medication for managing cardiovascular health. Additionally, it links to imaging techniques used in diagnosing coronary artery disease.

While the evidence supports its utility, more research is needed to fully understand its implications across diverse populations and clinical settings.

Sources

• Role of coronary artery calcium score in the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. (PMID:33947652)
• Coronary Artery Calcium Testing-Too Early, Too Late, Too Often. (PMID:40042828)
• Coronary Artery Calcium Score Predicts Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Stable Chest Pain. (PMID:38441097)
• When Does a Calcium Score Equate to Secondary Prevention?: Insights From the Multinational CONFIRM Registry. (PMID:37227328)
• Distribution of coronary artery calcium by race, gender, and age: results from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). (PMID:16365194)
• Coronary calcium score in the initial evaluation of suspected coronary artery disease. (PMID:36549683)

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