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Identifying Coronary Artery Calcification on Non-gated Computed Tomography Scans
04:40

Identifying Coronary Artery Calcification on Non-gated Computed Tomography Scans

Published on: August 28, 2018

Relation of thoracic aorta calcification on computed tomography and coronary risk factors to obstructive coronary

Kazuo Watanabe1, Tadayuki Hiroki, Nobuhiko Koga

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine/Cardiology, Fukuoka University, Chikushi Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan.

Angiology
|August 26, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Thoracic aorta calcification (TAC) and coronary risk factors are linked to obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). More calcified locations and risk factors significantly increase the likelihood of developing CAD.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Radiology
  • Preventive Medicine

Background:

  • Obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) poses a significant health risk.
  • Thoracic aorta calcification (TAC) is a potential indicator of cardiovascular disease.
  • The relationship between TAC, coronary risk factors, and obstructive CAD requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the correlation between thoracic aorta calcification (TAC) and obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD).
  • To assess the combined impact of TAC and traditional coronary risk factors on the presence of obstructive CAD.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 225 Japanese patients underwent thoracic computed tomography (CT) and coronary angiography.
  • TAC was assessed in four distinct thoracic aorta locations.
  • The presence and number of coronary risk factors were evaluated alongside TAC for correlation with obstructive CAD.

Main Results:

  • Thoracic aorta calcification (TAC) was detected in 185 out of 225 patients.
  • 141 patients had significant obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD).
  • A strong correlation was observed between the number of thoracic calcified locations, coronary risk factors, and the likelihood of obstructive CAD (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

  • Both the extent of thoracic aorta calcification (TAC) and the number of coronary risk factors are independently and collectively associated with obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD).
  • Patients with no TAC and no risk factors showed no CAD, highlighting the predictive value of these factors.
  • The findings suggest that TAC assessment may aid in identifying individuals at higher risk for obstructive CAD.

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