MR Imaging of Carotid Artery Atherosclerosis: Updated Evidence on High-Risk Plaque Features and Emerging Trends

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Cardiovascular Imaging
• Radiology

Background:

• Carotid artery atherosclerosis is a significant risk factor for stroke.
• Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is the established standard for evaluating carotid artery disease.
• Identifying vulnerable plaque components is crucial for predicting stroke risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on high-risk carotid plaque features identified by MR imaging.
• To discuss the emerging role of vulnerable plaques in cryptogenic strokes.
• To explore the potential of MR imaging in modifying carotid endarterectomy guidelines.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on MR imaging of carotid plaque.
• Analysis of imaging features associated with plaque vulnerability.
• Discussion of clinical implications and emerging applications.

Main Results:

• MR imaging can differentiate various carotid plaque components, including high-risk features.
• Specific plaque characteristics on MR imaging correlate with increased risk of adverse events.
• Emerging research highlights the link between vulnerable plaques and cryptogenic strokes.

Conclusions:

• MR imaging provides critical insights into carotid plaque vulnerability.
• Understanding these features can improve stroke risk stratification.
• MR imaging may influence future treatment strategies for carotid artery disease.