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Updated: Aug 2, 2026

A Methodological Approach to Non-invasive Assessments of Vascular Function and Morphology
09:33

A Methodological Approach to Non-invasive Assessments of Vascular Function and Morphology

Published on: February 7, 2015

Carotid intima-media thickness and plaque characteristics as a risk factor for stroke in Japanese elderly men

Akihiko Kitamura1, Hiroyasu Iso, Hironori Imano

  • 1Osaka Medical Center for Health Science and Promotion, 1-3-2 Nakamichi, Higashinari-ku, Osaka 537-0025, Japan. xkita@kenkoukagaku.jp

Stroke
|November 6, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and uncalcified plaques in the internal carotid artery (ICA) are stroke risk factors in elderly Japanese men. Ultrasonography can identify these risks for stroke prevention.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Ultrasound
  • Cerebrovascular Disease Epidemiology
  • Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Background:

  • Limited cohort studies exist on carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and plaque characteristics predicting stroke in healthy individuals.
  • Carotid atherosclerosis is a significant risk factor for cerebrovascular events.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between carotid IMT, plaque characteristics (surface, morphology, calcification), and stroke incidence in apparently healthy Japanese men.
  • To identify specific ultrasound markers for predicting stroke risk.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 1289 Japanese men aged 60-74 without prior stroke or coronary heart disease underwent bilateral carotid ultrasonography.
  • Carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and plaque characteristics were assessed.
  • Stroke incidence was prospectively followed over 4.5 years.

Main Results:

  • Higher maximum IMT of the common carotid artery (CCA) was associated with increased stroke risk.
  • Combined CCA and internal carotid artery (ICA) wall thickness improved stroke risk prediction compared to CCA alone.
  • Presence of ICA plaque (> or =1.5 mm) tripled stroke risk, with surface irregularity further elevating risk.
  • Uncalcified plaques were significantly associated with excess stroke risk.

Conclusions:

  • Increased carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) of the common carotid artery (CCA) is a risk factor for stroke.
  • Uncalcified plaques in the internal carotid artery (ICA), identified via ultrasonography, are significant stroke risk factors in elderly Japanese men.
Abstract

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