Effect of coronary artery calcium score on the reduction of global cardiovascular risk

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: There are no studies evaluating an association between different coronary artery calcium scores (CACS) and reduction of traditional cardiovascular risk. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of coronary calcium scoring on the reduction of global cardiovascular risk. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This was a prospective single-center study including 180 subjects (mean age, 58.8 years). Calcifications on computed tomography were calculated by 2 experts using the Agatston scale. Selected cardiovascular risk factors and medical procedures used in subjects were analyzed. RESULTS Invasive coronary angiography was performed in 60 patients (33.2%). It did not show significant coronary lesions in 26 patients (43.3%), while in the other 26 patients (43.3%), coronary angioplasty (stent implantation, balloon angioplasty) was performed. Eight subjects (13.3%) were referred for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), and the procedure was performed only in patients with a CACS of 400 AU and higher. Angioplasty was performed 10 times more often in these patients compared with patients with a CACS of 1 to 399 AU. A significant correlation between the CACS and cardiovascular risk was observed in relation to age, weight, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure. CONCLUSIONS: Coronary calcium scoring allows to identify patients requiring invasive coronary angioplasty, or, in some cases, CABG, with greater precision. This can strengthen the role of the CACS as a complement to a classic evaluation of cardiovascular risk factors.