Carotid intima-media thickness measurements: techniques and clinical relevance
Blai Coll1, Steven B Feinstein
1Cardiology Department, Echocardiography Laboratory at Rush Medical Hospital, 1653 West Congress Parkway, Jelke Building 1015, Chicago, IL 66610, USA.
Insights
Intima-media thickness (IMT) measured by ultrasound is a valuable surrogate marker for atherosclerosis research, enabling quicker and more cost-effective studies. However, technical limitations in IMT measurement can impact the interpretation of clinical study results.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Medical Imaging
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is a major cause of cardiovascular events and stroke.
- Large-scale epidemiological studies and intervention trials are time-consuming and costly.
- Surrogate markers are crucial for efficient clinical research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review technical considerations for intima-media thickness (IMT) measurement.
- To highlight issues needing systematic attention in IMT studies.
- To assess the value and limitations of IMT as a surrogate marker.
Main Methods:
- Review of technical aspects of B-mode ultrasound for IMT measurement.
- Analysis of factors influencing IMT measurement accuracy and reproducibility.
- Discussion of validation by official medical agencies.
Main Results:
- Intima-media thickness (IMT) is the most studied ultrasound surrogate marker for atherosclerosis.
- Standardized measurement techniques are essential for reliable data.
- Several technical limitations can compromise the interpretation of IMT findings.
Conclusions:
- IMT measurement by B-mode ultrasound is a valuable tool in atherosclerosis research.
- Addressing technical limitations is critical for accurate interpretation of IMT data.
- Careful consideration of methodological issues enhances the utility of IMT in clinical studies.
Abstract:
Atherosclerosis is a systemic disease that is responsible for most cardiovascular events and stroke. Epidemiologic studies and intervention trials based on the incidence of acute vascular disease end points require years of follow-up, the participation of large populations, or both. As a consequence, such studies consume considerable time and financial resources. The use of surrogate markers, therefore, is of paramount relevance because it allows researchers to have reliable data in less time and from reduced populations. Intima-media thickness (IMT) measured by B-mode ultrasound is the most studied surrogate marker and has been validated by official medical agencies. In this article, we review the most important technical considerations related to its measurement and highlight issues that should be systematically addressed in IMT-related studies. In summary, the use of IMT as an end point in clinical studies is of great value, but several technical limitations might jeopardize its interpretation.
