Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026
04:40
Identifying Coronary Artery Calcification on Non-gated Computed Tomography Scans
Published on: August 28, 2018
Gender differences in coronary plaque composition by coronary computed tomography angiography
Michael J Blaha1, Khurram Nasir, Juan J Rivera
1Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Preventive Cardiology Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Coronary Artery Disease
|October 28, 2009
Summary
Men have a higher burden of calcified (CAP) and mixed coronary artery plaques (MCAP) compared to women, even after adjusting for age. Non-calcified plaque burden showed no significant sex difference in this study of asymptomatic individuals.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Radiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) differentiates non-calcified (NCAP), calcified (CAP), and mixed coronary artery plaques (MCAP).
- Sex differences in atherosclerosis prevalence exist, but age-adjusted data on plaque morphology and composition are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-adjusted sex differences in coronary artery plaque morphology and composition.
- To analyze the association between sex and the burden of different plaque types (CAP, MCAP, NCAP).
Main Methods:
- 1015 asymptomatic South Korean patients underwent CCTA.
- Plaque characteristics were classified using the modified AHA classification.
- Multiple regression analysis adjusted for age and cardiovascular risk factors.
Main Results:
- Men showed a higher prevalence of coronary plaque (13% vs. 4%).
- Males had a greater burden of CAP (4% vs. 1%) and MCAP (5% vs. 1%).
- No significant sex difference was observed in NCAP burden (2% vs. 1%).
- Multivariable analysis revealed men had 6-7 times greater odds of increased CAP and MCAP burden.
Conclusions:
- Asymptomatic middle-aged Korean males have a significantly greater burden of MCAP and CAP.
- These findings may contribute to understanding accelerated cardiovascular risk in men.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT
Calcium-Scoring CT ScanA calcium-scoring CT scan, also known as coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, detects calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. This test assesses the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to cardiovascular events such as angina, heart failure, and sudden cardiac arrest.A calcium-scoring CT scan is generally recommended for individuals at intermediate risk of CAD without symptoms. It includes:Men aged 40-75 and women aged 50-75: Especially those with a...
01:30Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): An Overview with Scientific InsightsCoronary Artery Disease (CAD), often referred to as C-A-D, is a prevalent blood vessel disorder classified under the broader category of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a pathological process characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques are composed of cholesterol, fatty substances, inflammatory cells, calcium, and fibrin, reducing blood flow to...
01:28Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT
Cardiac computed tomography (CT) scanning is an advanced cardiac imaging technique that utilizes CT technology, with or without intravenous (IV) contrast, to produce accurate cross-sectional virtual slices of specific areas of the heart, coronary circulation, and major blood vessels such as the aorta, pulmonary veins, and arteries. The computer processes these slices to generate three-dimensional images. Multidetector CT (MDCT) is a rapid form of CT scanning that captures multiple slices...
01:30Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a primary health risk worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, resulting in diminished blood supply to the heart muscle.The clinical manifestations of CAD vary widely, from asymptomatic stages to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.Angina Pectoris: The Warning...
01:30Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
Diagnosing acute coronary syndrome or ACS begins with a thorough patient history. Notable symptoms include central, crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back, along with shortness of breath, sweating (diaphoresis), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations.It is crucial to note any history of cardiac illnesses and assess risk factors, including age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle.During physical examination, vital...
01:26Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) originates from a series of events that impair the function of coronary arteries, the blood vessels responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. The pathophysiology of CAD is closely linked to atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory and lipid-driven condition affecting the vascular endothelium.1. Endothelial DamageThe process begins with damage to the vascular endothelium, which serves as a protective barrier between the blood and the vessel...