[Coronary artery calcium score in clinical practice]

Abstract

Since the beginning of the 1990s it is possible to obtain images of the heart using CT technology to visualise coronary calcifications. The amount of coronary calcification can be quantified with a coronary artery calcium score. Today, there is sufficient scientific evidence that justifies the use of the coronary artery calcium score in selected patients. In asymptomatic patients, the coronary artery calcium score can be used for more precise and tailored risk stratification for the occurrence of future cardiovascular events. The absence of coronary calcification is associated with a good prognosis. In addition, the coronary artery calcium score can also be used as the initial test in symptomatic patients, to dictate treatment strategies going forward.