The extent of coronary artery calcification directly correlates to the area of atheromatous plaque.[1] Hence in patients with chest pain, coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring is one of the factor to be considered in the risk assessment for coronary artery disease. The methods used for detection and quantification of CAC include electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) and multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT).[2] Agatston score is a computed software that is commonly used to measure CAC based on the density and area of calcified plaques.[3]
Ultrafast computed tomography can be used to detect coronary calcifications, which often precede symptomatic coronary artery stenosis. However, coronary calcification is also observed in patients without important coronary artery disease at angiography.
CT angiography used for the detection of CAD, has a negative predictive value of 93-99%, sensitivity of 90-94% and specificity of 95-97%.[4][5]
CT angiography is indicated in patients with a low pretest probability of CAD (less than 10%) or in patients with non conclusive exercise ECG or stress test.
Although this test has generated substantial interest and publicity, the current lack of information from large scale assessments make it premature to recommend its use in routine clinical care.
ACC/AHA/ACP–ASIM Guidelines for the Management of Patients With Chronic Stable Angina (DO NOT EDIT)[6][edit | edit source]
Noninvasive Testing-Electron Beam Tomography (DO NOT EDIT)[6][edit | edit source]