Heart disease can silently build up over many years before any signs or symptoms become apparent. One of the ways your doctor can examine whether you have early signs of coronary artery disease is a calcium score test, which is conducted using CT scans.
Information on what this test measures, what different scores mean, and when one should take the test can come in handy.
What Is a Calcium Score Test?
A calcium score test is an imaging test performed using a CT scan that shows the amount of calcification in the coronary arteries. Since there can be calcifications, it means that one can find atherosclerotic plaques and therefore understand their cardiovascular risk.
Another name for the test is the coronary artery calcium scan and coronary calcium scoring test. No contrast dye is needed for the procedure.
Why Is Coronary Artery Calcium Important?
Coronary calcium predicts the condition known as atherosclerosis. It means that the more coronary artery calcium one has, the higher the likelihood of having heart disease in the future. The zero value indicates the absence of coronary calcium. However, this does not mean that patients will not suffer from heart attacks in the future or from other heart conditions and coronary plaque that is not calcified. This value has to be interpreted while considering other important indicators such as age, cholesterol level, high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, etc.
Cardiac CT Scan Process
During a cardiac CT scan, electrodes can be applied to the chest to monitor the heartbeat and assist with synchronizing the imaging process. The individual lies down on a movable table that the CT machine uses to acquire detailed images of the heart and the coronary arteries. The patient will be required to hold their breath for a short period during image acquisition. A calcium score scan usually takes only a few minutes, although the entire procedure may take longer.
Since CT scans use X-rays, the process exposes the patient to radiation. The level of exposure is usually low, but patients are advised to consult with their doctor concerning the risks and benefits of the procedure, especially when pregnant.
How Are Calcium Scores Interpreted?
The calcium score is commonly reported using the Agatston scoring system. In general, higher numbers indicate more coronary calcium.
A score of 0 indicates no detectable calcium, while scores above 0 indicate that some calcified plaque is present. Common categories include minimal calcium at very low scores and increasing levels through moderate and higher scores, although interpretation should account for the individual's age and overall risk profile.
A calcium score is not a complete diagnosis of heart health. It does not directly show every type of plaque or determine whether an artery is significantly narrowed. Your healthcare provider should interpret the result alongside your other medical information.
Who Should Get a Calcium Score Scan?
The test is not indicated for all individuals. It should be done when there is uncertainty about the degree of risk for heart disease, and the outcome would help make prevention choices like considering cholesterol-lowering medication.
Calcium scanning is not normally recommended as a substitute for immediate evaluation when an individual experiences signs like chest pain. Individuals with already diagnosed coronary heart disease or other past heart problems may need other tests.
Choosing a Reliable CT Imaging Provider
When you are selecting a dependable service provider for getting your calcium score test done, take into account the quality of the CT scanning machine being used, the credentials of the radiologist who will be interpreting your test, and communication with respect to radiation exposure and results. ViaScan, in Irving, Texas, is one imaging provider that offers heart scans and calcium scoring. Its published information describes coronary calcium scoring as part of its preventive heart-scanning services.
When comparing imaging providers, patients can consider factors such as qualified image interpretation, appropriate CT equipment, clear reporting, transparent pricing, and whether results are reviewed in the context of their overall cardiovascular risk.
Conclusion
A calcium score test is useful in identifying the presence of calcified plaque and risks for cardiovascular disease; however, the score should not be interpreted in isolation. It may warrant discussion regarding the need for making lifestyle adjustments, lowering cholesterol, taking medications, or undergoing other tests, based on the patient.
If a coronary artery calcium test is being contemplated, one must discuss the patient’s individual risks and how the test might affect his/her care plan with an appropriate physician. The appropriate screening protocol varies according to individual medical histories.
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