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Updated: Jul 5, 2026

In Vivo Quantitative Assessment of Myocardial Structure, Function, Perfusion and Viability Using Cardiac Micro-computed Tomography
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Obtaining a Coronary Artery Calcium Score with Myocardial Perfusion Imaging

Merrill Thomas1, Randall C Thompson1

  • 1University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine; Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, 4401 Wornall Road, Kansas City, MO 64111, USA.

Heart Failure Clinics
|June 12, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Coronary artery calcium scoring provides valuable diagnostic and prognostic data when used with myocardial perfusion imaging. Routine calcium assessment in patients without known coronary artery disease is recommended during perfusion imaging.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Nuclear Medicine
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) is a key tool for assessing coronary artery disease (CAD).
  • Existing diagnostic methods for CAD may benefit from complementary information.
  • Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring is an established imaging technique.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the added value of CAC scoring to MPI.
  • To determine if CAC scoring influences clinical decision-making in patients undergoing MPI.
  • To establish recommendations for the routine use of CAC scoring.

Main Methods:

  • Coronary artery calcium scoring was assessed in conjunction with MPI.
  • Diagnostic and prognostic information from both modalities was analyzed.
  • Impact on patient management strategies was evaluated.

Main Results:

  • CAC scoring provides significant diagnostic and prognostic information beyond MPI alone.
  • The integration of CAC scoring has been demonstrated to alter patient management.
  • Routine CAC assessment is feasible and beneficial in specific patient populations.

Conclusions:

  • CAC scoring should be routinely considered alongside MPI for patients without known CAD.
  • This combined approach enhances diagnostic accuracy and prognostic stratification.
  • Integrating CAC assessment into MPI protocols can optimize patient care and outcomes.

Keywords:
Coronary artery calcium scoreMyocardial perfusion imagingPETSingle-photon emission computed tomography

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