Diagnostic and prognostic value of absence of coronary artery calcification

Coronary artery calcium and the risk of cardiovascular events and mortality in younger adults: a meta-analysis

AIMS

American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association 2019 prevention guidelines recommend utilizing coronary artery calcium (CAC) to stratify cardiovascular risk in selected cases. However, data regarding CAC and risk in younger adults are less robust due to the lower prevalence of CAC and lower incidence of events. The objective of this meta-analysis is to determine the ability of CAC to predict the risk of cardiovascular events and mortality in adults <50.

METHODS AND RESULTS

PubMed and Cochrane CENTRAL databases were electronically searched through May 2022 for studies with a primary prevention cohort under age 55 who underwent CAC scoring. Six observational studies with a total of 45 919 individuals with an average age of 43.1 and mean follow-up of 12.1 years were included. The presence of CAC was associated with an increased risk of adverse events [pooled hazard ratio (HR) = 1.80, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.26-2.56, P = 0.012, I2 = 65.5]. Compared with a CAC of 0, a CAC of 1-100 did carry an increased risk of cardiovascular events (pooled HR = 1.85, 95% CI 1.08-3.16, P = 0.0248, I2 = 50.3), but not mortality (pooled HR = 1.20, 95% CI 0.85-1.69, P = 0.2917), while a CAC > 100 did carry an increased risk of cardiovascular events (pooled HR = 6.57, 95% CI 3.23-13.36, P < 0.0001, I2 = 72.6) and mortality (pooled HR = 2.91, 95% CI 2.23-3.80, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

In a meta-analysis of younger adults undergoing CAC scoring, a CAC of 1-100 was associated with a higher likelihood of cardiovascular events, while a CAC > 100 was associated with a higher likelihood of cardiovascular events and mortality.

Diagnostic performance of coronary calcifications on CT to rule out acute coronary syndrome in the emergency department

BACKGROUND

At present, the diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) can be made by emergency physicians using the usual complementary tests, since the current troponin and electrocardiogram (ECG) protocols have been extensively tested for their safety. However, the detection of coronary calcifications on CT associated with coronary obstruction may be of interest for the diagnostic strategy in the emergency department (ED). The aim of this study was to evaluate a strategy combining a non-ischemic ECG with an initial normal troponin assay and the diagnostic accuracy of chest CT in detecting coronary calcifications to rule out the presence of an acute coronary event in patients presenting with chest pain in the ED.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, single-center study carried out in an ED in France and included all patients over 18 years of age presenting with chest pain between 1 June 2021 and 31 December 2021 with a non-ischemic ECG and a negative first troponin assay. The primary endpoint was the diagnostic performance of the combing strategy in ruling out ACS. The secondary endpoints were the sensitivity and specificity of calcifications in acute coronary syndrome, comparison with the diagnostic performance of a second troponin assay and the rate of reconsultation, rehospitalisation and investigations within 2 months of the ED.

RESULTS

Of the 280 patients included, 141 didn't have calcifications. A total of 14 events were found with a negative predictive value for the combining strategy of 99.8% [95%CI: 98.2 - 100]. Sensitivity and specificity were 98.4% [95%CI: 83.8 - 100] and 53% [95%CI: 47 - 58.9], respectively. Among patients with no calcification, 8.2% were admitted to hospital and none suffered an acute coronary event. A total of 36 patients (12.8%) consulted a doctor within 2 months, with 23 investigations, all of which were negative in the non-calcification group.

CONCLUSIONS

A strategy combining the detection of coronary calcifications on chest CT in patients with a non-ischemic ECG and a single troponin assay is effective to rule out ACS in the ED, and may perform better then ECG and troponin alone.

Prevalence and clinical implications of coronary artery calcium scoring on non-gated thoracic computed tomography: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Coronary artery calcifications (CACs) indicate the presence of coronary artery disease. CAC can be found on thoracic computed tomography (CT) conducted for non-cardiac reasons. This systematic review and meta-analysis of non-gated thoracic CT aims to assess the clinical impact and prevalence of CAC.

METHODS

Online databases were searched for articles assessing prevalence, demographic characteristics, accuracy and prognosis of incidental CAC on non-gated thoracic CT. Meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model.

RESULTS

A total of 108 studies (113,406 patients) were included (38% female). Prevalence of CAC ranged from 2.7 to 100% (pooled prevalence 52%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 46-58%). Patients with CAC were older (pooled standardised mean difference 0.88, 95% CI 0.65-1.11, p < 0.001), and more likely to be male (pooled odds ratio [OR] 1.95, 95% CI 1.55-2.45, p < 0.001), with diabetes (pooled OR 2.63, 95% CI 1.95-3.54, p < 0.001), hypercholesterolaemia (pooled OR 2.28, 95% CI 1.33-3.93, p < 0.01) and hypertension (pooled OR 3.89, 95% CI 2.26-6.70, p < 0.001), but not higher body mass index or smoking. Non-gated CT assessment of CAC had excellent agreement with electrocardiogram-gated CT (pooled correlation coefficient 0.96, 95% CI 0.92-0.98, p < 0.001). In 51,582 patients, followed-up for 51.6 ± 27.4 months, patients with CAC had increased all cause mortality (pooled relative risk [RR] 2.13, 95% CI 1.57-2.90, p = 0.004) and major adverse cardiovascular events (pooled RR 2.91, 95% CI 2.26-3.93, p < 0.001). When CAC was present on CT, it was reported in between 18.6% and 93% of reports.

CONCLUSION

CAC is a common, but underreported, finding on non-gated CT with important prognostic implications.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

Coronary artery calcium is an important prognostic indicator of cardiovascular disease. It can be assessed on non-gated thoracic CT and is a commonly underreported finding. This represents a significant population where there is a potential missed opportunity for lifestyle modification recommendations and preventative therapies. This study aims to highlight the importance of reporting incidental coronary artery calcium on non-gated thoracic CT.

KEY POINTS

• Coronary artery calcification is a common finding on non-gated thoracic CT and can be reliably identified compared to gated-CT. • Coronary artery calcification on thoracic CT is associated with an increased risk of all cause mortality and major adverse cardiovascsular events. • Coronary artery calcification is frequently not reported on non-gated thoracic CT.

Subclinical Atherosclerosis to Guide Treatment in Dyslipidemia and Diabetes Mellitus

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Dyslipidemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus are two common conditions that are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). In this review, we aimed to provide an in-depth and contemporary review of non-invasive approaches to assess subclinical atherosclerotic burden, predict cardiovascular risk, and guide appropriate treatment strategies. We focused this paper on two main imaging modalities: coronary artery calcium (CAC) score and computed tomography coronary angiography.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent longitudinal studies have provided stronger evidence on the relationship between increased CAC, thoracic aorta calcification, and risk of cardiovascular events among those with primary hypercholesterolemia, highlighting the beneficial role of statin therapy. Interestingly, resilient profiles of individuals not exhibiting atherosclerosis despite dyslipidemia have been described. Non-conventional markers of dyslipidemia have also been associated with increased subclinical atherosclerosis presence and burden, highlighting the contribution of apolipoprotein B-100 (apoB)-rich lipoprotein particles, such as remnant cholesterol and lipoprotein(a), to the residual risk of individuals on-target for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goals. Regarding type 2 diabetes mellitus, variability in atherosclerotic burden has also been found, and CAC testing has shown significant predictive value in stratifying cardiovascular risk. Non-invasive assessment of subclinical atherosclerosis can help reveal the continuum of ASCVD risk in those with dyslipidemia and diabetes mellitus and can inform personalized strategies for cardiovascular disease prevention in the primary prevention setting.

Lipid Association of India 2023 update on cardiovascular risk assessment and lipid management in Indian patients: Consensus statement IV

OBJECTIVE

In 2016, the Lipid Association of India (LAI) developed a cardiovascular risk assessment algorithm and defined low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goals for prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in Indians. The recent refinements in the role of various risk factors and subclinical atherosclerosis in prediction of ASCVD risk necessitated updating the risk algorithm and treatment goals.

METHODS

The LAI core committee held twenty-one meetings and webinars from June 2022 to July 2023 with experts across India and critically reviewed the latest evidence regarding the strategies for ASCVD risk prediction and the benefits and modalities for intensive lipid lowering. Based on the expert consensus and extensive review of published data, consensus statement IV was commissioned.

RESULTS

The young age of onset and a more aggressive nature of ASCVD in Indians necessitates emphasis on lifetime ASCVD risk instead of the conventional 10-year risk. It also demands early institution of aggressive preventive measures to protect the young population prior to development of ASCVD events. Wide availability and low cost of statins in India enable implementation of effective LDL-C-lowering therapy in individuals at high risk of ASCVD. Subjects with any evidence of subclinical atherosclerosis are likely to benefit the most from early aggressive interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

This document presents the updated risk stratification and treatment algorithm and describes the rationale for each modification. The intent of these updated recommendations is to modernize management of dyslipidemia in Indian patients with the goal of reducing the epidemic of ASCVD among Indians in Asia and worldwide.

Canadian Cost-Effectiveness of Coronary Artery Calcium Screening Based on the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis

Background

Cost-effectiveness of testing for coronary artery calcium (CAC) relative to other treatment strategies is not established in Canada.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of using CAC score-guided statin treatment compared with universal statin therapy among intermediate-risk, primary prevention patients eligible for statins.

Methods

A state transition, microsimulation model used data from Canadian sources and the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis to simulate clinical and economic consequences of cardiovascular disease from a Canadian publicly funded health care system perspective. In the CAC score-guided treatment arm, statins were started when CAC ≥1. Outcome of interest was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio at 5 and 10 years; an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio <$50,000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained was considered cost-effective. Sensitivity analyses examined uncertainty in model parameters.

Results

Compared with universal statin treatment at 5 and 10 years, CAC score-guided statin treatment was projected to increase mean costs by $326 (95% CI: $325-$326) and $172 (95% CI: $169-$175), increase mean QALYs by 0.01 (95% CI: 0.01-0.01) and 0.02 (95% CI: 0.02-0.02), and cost $54,492 (95% CI: $52,342-$56,816) and $8,118 (95% CI: $7,968-$8,279) per QALY gained, respectively. The model was most sensitive to statin cost, CAC testing cost, adherence to statin monitoring, and disutility associated with daily statin use. At 5 years, CAC score-guided statin treatment was cost-effective when CAC test costs ranged from $80 to $160 in different scenarios.

Conclusions

CAC score-guided statin initiation in comparison to universal statin treatment was borderline cost-neutral at 5 years and cost-effective at 10 years in statin-eligible Canadian patients at intermediate cardiovascular disease risk.

Low-dose, high-pitch, spiral (FLASH) mode versus conventional sequential method for coronary artery calcium scoring: A derivation-validation study

Introduction

The present study sought to compare the diagnostic accuracy and radiation dose of ECG-gated, ultra-fast, low-dose, high-pitch, spiral (FLASH) mode versus conventional, ECG-gated, sequential coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

The study included 120 patients who underwent both conventional scanning and FLASH mode scanning and were subdivided into derivation and validation cohorts. In the conventional sequential (step-and-shoot) protocol, prospective ECG-gated, non-contrast acquisition was performed at 70% of R-R interval. The spiral (FLASH) mode utilized a high-pitch and high-speed gantry rotation scanning mode where acquisition of the entire heart was done within a single cardiac cycle with prospective ECG-gating at 70% of R-R interval.

Results

Correlation between CAC scores derived from conventional (cCAC) and FLASH mode (fCAC) in derivation cohort was excellent (r=0.99; P<0.001). A linear regression model was used to develop a formula for deriving the estimated CAC score (eCAC) from fCAC (eCAC=0.978 x fCAC). In validation cohort, eCAC showed excellent agreement with cCAC (ICC=0.9983; 95%CI: 0.9972 - 0.9990). Excellent agreement for risk classification (weighted kappa=0.93898; 95%CI: 0.86833 - 1.0000) was observed with 95% (57/60) scores falling within the same risk category. Effective dose was significantly lower in FLASH mode (conventional, 0.58±0.21 mSv vs. FLASH, 0.34±0.12 mSv; P<0.0001).

Conclusion

CAC scoring using FLASH mode is feasible with high accuracy and shows excellent agreement with conventional CAC scores at significantly reduced radiation doses.

Age- and sex-based heterogeneity in coronary artery plaque presence and burden in familial hypercholesterolemia: A multi-national study

Objectives

Individuals with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) are at an increased risk for coronary artery disease (CAD). While prior research has shown variability in coronary artery calcification (CAC) among those with FH, studies with small sample sizes and single-center recruitment have been limited in their ability to characterize CAC and plaque burden in subgroups based on age and sex. Understanding the spectrum of atherosclerosis may result in personalized risk assessment and tailored allocation of costly add-on, non-statin lipid-lowering therapies. We aimed to characterize the presence and burden of CAC and coronary plaque on computed tomography angiography (CTA) across age- and sex-stratified subgroups of individuals with FH who were without CAD at baseline.

Methods

We pooled 1,011 patients from six cohorts across Brazil, France, the Netherlands, Spain, and Australia. Our main measures of subclinical atherosclerosis included CAC ranges (i.e., 0, 1-100, 101-400, >400) and CTA-derived plaque burden (i.e., no plaque, non-obstructive CAD, obstructive CAD).

Results

Ninety-five percent of individuals with FH (mean age: 48 years; 54% female; treated LDL-C: 154 mg/dL) had a molecular diagnosis and 899 (89%) were on statin therapy. Overall, 423 (42%) had CAC=0, 329 (33%) had CAC 1-100, 160 (16%) had CAC 101-400, and 99 (10%) had CAC >400. Compared to males, female patients were more likely to have CAC=0 (48% [n = 262] vs 35% [n = 161]) and no plaque on CTA (39% [n = 215] vs 26% [n = 120]). Among patients with CAC=0, 85 (20%) had non-obstructive CAD. Females also had a lower prevalence of obstructive CAD in CAC 1-100 (8% [n = 15] vs 18% [n = 26]), CAC 101-400 (32% [n = 22] vs 40% [n = 36]), and CAC >400 (52% [n = 16] vs 65% [n = 44]). Female patients aged 50-59 years were less likely to have obstructive CAD in CAC >400 (55% [n = 6] vs 70% [n = 19]).

Conclusion

In this large, multi-national study, we found substantial age- and sex-based heterogeneity in CAC and plaque burden in a cohort of predominantly statin-treated individuals with FH, with evidence for a less pronounced increase in atherosclerosis among female patients. Future studies should examine the predictors of resilience to and long-term implications of the differential burden of subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in this higher risk population.

Non-calcified plaque in asymptomatic patients with zero coronary artery calcium score: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

There is growing interest in understanding the coronary atherosclerotic burden in asymptomatic patients with zero coronary artery calcium score (CACS). In this population, we aimed to investigate the prevalence and severity of non-calcified coronary plaques (NCP) as detected by coronary CT angiography (CCTA), and to analyze the associated clinical predictors.

METHODS

This was a systematic review with meta-analysis of studies indexed in PubMed/Medline and Web of Science from inception of the database to March 31st, 2023. Using the random-effects model, separate Forest and Galbraith plots were generated for each effect size assessed. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistics whilst Funnel plots and Egger's test were used to assess for publication bias.

RESULTS

From a total of 14 studies comprising 37808 patients, we approximated the pooled summary estimates for the overall prevalence of NCP to be 10% (95%CI: 6%-13%). Similarly, the pooled prevalence of obstructive NCP was estimated at 1.1% (95%CI: 0.7%-1.5%) from a total of 10 studies involving 21531 patients. Hypertension [OR: 1.46 (95%CI:1.31-1.62)] and diabetes mellitus [OR: 1.69 (95%CI: 1.41-1.97)] were significantly associated with developing any NCP, with male gender being the strongest predictor [OR: 3.22 (95%CI: 2.17-4.27)].

CONCLUSION

There is a low burden of NCP among asymptomatic subjects with zero CACS. In a subset of this population who have clinical predictors of NCP, the addition of CCTA has a potential to provide a better insight about occult coronary atherosclerosis, however, a risk-benefit approach must be factored in prior to CCTA use given the low prevalence of NCP.

Coronary artery calcium score and pre-test probabilities as gatekeepers to predict and rule out perfusion defects in positron emission tomography

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the gatekeeper performance of coronary artery calcium score (CACS) before myocardial perfusion positron emission tomography (PET), compared with updated pre-test probabilities from American and European guidelines (pre-test-AHA/ACC, pre-test-ESC).

METHODS

We enrolled participants without known coronary artery disease undergoing CACS and Rubidium-82 PET. Abnormal perfusion was defined as summed stress score ≥ 4. Using Bayes' formula, pre-test probabilities and CACS were combined into post-test probabilities.

RESULTS

We included 2050 participants (54% male, mean age 64.6 years) with median CACS 62 (IQR 0-380), pre-test-ESC 17% (11-26), pre-test-AHA/ACC 27% (16-44), and abnormal perfusion in 437 participants (21%). To predict abnormal perfusion, area under the curve of CACS was 0.81, pre-test-AHA/ACC 0.68, pre-test-ESC 0.69, post-test-AHA/ACC 0.80, and post-test-ESC 0.81 (P < 0.001 for CACS vs. each pre-test, and each post-test vs. pre-test). CACS = 0 had 97% negative predictive value (NPV), pre-test-AHA/ACC ≤ 5% 100%, pre-test-ESC ≤ 5% 98%, post-test-AHA/ACC ≤ 5% 98%, and post-test-ESC ≤ 5% 96%. Among participants, 26% had CACS = 0, 2% pre-test-AHA/ACC ≤ 5%, 7% pre-test-ESC ≤ 5%, 23% post-test-AHA/ACC ≤ 5%, and 33% post-test-ESC ≤ 5% (all P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

CACS and post-test probabilities are excellent predictors of abnormal perfusion and can rule it out with very high NPV in a substantial proportion of participants. CACS and post-test probabilities may be used as gatekeepers before advanced imaging. Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) predicted abnormal perfusion (SSS ≥ 4) in myocardial positron emission tomography (PET) better than pre-test probabilities of coronary artery disease (CAD), while pre-test-AHA/ACC and pre-test-ESC performed similarly (left). Using Bayes' formula, pre-test-AHA/ACC or pre-test-ESC were combined with CACS into post-test probabilities (middle). This calculation reclassified a substantial proportion of participants to low probability of CAD (0-5%), not needing further imaging, as shown for AHA/ACC probabilities (2% with pre-test-AHA/ACC to 23% with post-test-AHA/ACC, P < 0.001, right). Very few participants with abnormal perfusion were classified under pre-test or post-test probabilities 0-5%, or under CACS 0. AUC: area under the curve. Pre-test-AHA/ACC: Pre-test probability of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology. Post-test-AHA/ACC: Post-test probability combining pre-test-AHA/ACC and CACS. Pre-test-ESC: Pre-test probability of the European Society of Cardiology. SSS: Summed stress score.

Predictors of long-term absence of coronary artery calcium in individuals with high blood pressure: results from the MESA study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Individuals with high blood pressure (BP) have varying risks of cardiovascular events due to other coexisting factors. We aimed to identify the predictors of long-term absence of coronary artery calcium (CAC) in individuals with high BP, which is an indicator of healthy arterial aging and can guide preventive strategies.

METHODS

We analyzed data from participants with high BP (≥120/80 mm Hg) in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis who had baseline CAC = 0 and underwent a second CAC scanning after 10 years. We used multivariable logistic regression to evaluate the association between various risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and long-term CAC = 0. We also calculated the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) to predict the phenotype of healthy arterial aging in this population.

RESULTS

We included 830 participants (37.6% male, mean ± SD age of 59.4 ± 8.7 years). During follow-up, 46.5% of participants (n = 386) had CAC = 0, and they were younger and had fewer metabolic syndrome components. Adding ASCVD risk factors to the demographic model (age, sex, and ethnicity) moderately increased the predictive value for long-term CAC = 0 (AUC: demographic model + ASCVD risk factors vs. demographic model alone, 0.653 vs. 0.597, p < .001; category net reclassification improvement = 0.104, p = .044; integrated discrimination improvement = 0.040, p < .001).

CONCLUSION

In individuals with high BP and initial CAC = 0, over 40% maintained CAC = 0 during a 10-year follow-up, which was associated with fewer ASCVD risk factors. These findings may have implications for preventive strategies in individuals with high BP.Clinical Trial registration number: The MESA was registered at clinical trials. gov as NCT00005487.KEY MESSAGESNearly half (46.5%) of individuals with high blood pressure (BP) maintained a long-term absence of coronary artery calcium (CAC) during a 10-year follow-up, and this was associated with a 66.6% lower risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) events compared to those who developed incident CAC.Individuals with high BP, who are usually assumed to have an increased risk of ASCVD, exhibit significant heterogeneity in their ASCVD risk; those who maintain CAC = 0 have a lower ASCVD risk.Adding overall ASCVD risk factors to demographic information resulted in a moderate improvement in predicting long-term CAC = 0.

Coronary and Extra-coronary Subclinical Atherosclerosis to Guide Lipid-Lowering Therapy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To discuss and review the technical considerations, fundamentals, and guideline-based indications for coronary artery calcium scoring, and the use of other non-invasive imaging modalities, such as extra-coronary calcification in cardiovascular risk prediction.

RECENT FINDINGS

The most robust evidence for the use of CAC scoring is in select individuals, 40-75 years of age, at borderline to intermediate 10-year ASCVD risk. Recent US recommendations support the use of CAC scoring in varying clinical scenarios. First, in adults with very high CAC scores (CAC ≥ 1000), the use of high-intensity statin therapy and, if necessary, guideline-based add-on LDL-C lowering therapies (ezetimibe, PCSK9-inhibitors) to achieve a ≥ 50% reduction in LDL-C and optimally an LDL-C < 70 mg/dL is recommended. In patients with a CAC score ≥ 100 at low risk of bleeding, the benefits of aspirin use may outweigh the risk of bleeding. Other applications of CAC scoring include risk estimation on non-contrast CT scans of the chest, risk prediction in younger patients (< 40 years of age), its value as a gatekeeper for the decision to perform nuclear stress testing, and to aid in risk stratification in patients presenting with low-risk chest pain. There is a correlation between extra-coronary calcification (e.g., breast arterial calcification, aortic calcification, and aortic valve calcification) and incident ASCVD events. However, its role in informing lipid management remains unclear. Identification of coronary calcium in selected patients is the single best non-invasive imaging modality to identify future ASCVD risk and inform lipid-lowering therapy decision-making.

Utility of coronary artery calcium in refining 10-year ASCVD risk prediction using a Thai CV risk score

Background

Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scanning is a valuable additional tool for calculating the risk of cardiovascular (CV) events. We aimed to determine if a CAC score could improve performance of a Thai CV risk score in prediction of 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk for asymptomatic patients with CV risk factors.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study that enrolled asymptomatic patients with CV risk factors who underwent CAC scans between 2005 and 2013. The patients were classified as low-, intermediate-, or high-risk (<10%, 10%-<20%, and ≥20%, respectively) of having ASCVD within 10-years based on a Thai CV risk score. In each patient, CAC score was considered as a categorical variable (0, 1-99, and ≥100) and natural-log variable to assess the risk of developing CV events (CV death, non-fatal MI, or non-fatal stroke). The C statistic and the net reclassification improvement (NRI) index were applied to assess whether CAC improved ASCVD risk prediction.

Results

A total of 6,964 patients were analyzed (mean age: 59.0 ± 8.4 years; 63.3% women). The majority of patients were classified as low- or intermediate-risk (75.3% and 20.5%, respectively), whereas only 4.2% were classified as high-risk. Nearly half (49.7%) of patients had a CAC score of zero (no calcifications detected), while 32.0% had scores of 1-99, and 18.3% of ≥100. In the low- and intermediate-risk groups, patients with a CAC ≥100 experienced higher rates of CV events, with hazard ratios (95% CI) of 1.95 (1.35, 2.81) and 3.04 (2.26, 4.10), respectively. Incorporation of ln(CAC + 1) into their Thai CV risk scores improved the C statistic from 0.703 (0.68, 0.72) to 0.716 (0.69, 0.74), and resulted in an NRI index of 0.06 (0.02, 0.10). To enhance the performance of the Thai CV risk score, a revision of the CV risk model was performed, incorporating ln(CAC + 1), which further increased the C statistic to 0.771 (0.755, 0.788).

Conclusion

The addition of CAC to traditional risk factors improved CV risk stratification and ASCVD prediction. Whether this adjustment leads to a reduction in CV events and is cost-effective will require further assessment.

Premature atherosclerosis: An analysis over 39 years in the Netherlands. Implications for young individuals in high-risk families

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), especially atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), is one of the most important disease problems in the world accounting for an estimated 18.6 million deaths globally. Although older individuals are more often affected, ASCVD event at a young age is of particular importance because of more healthy years lost. Therefore, it is important to identify young individuals correctly at risk of ASCVD events in an early stage. Unfortunately, current risk score algorithms underestimate ASCVD event risk at a younger age. Both coronary artery calcium scoring (CACs) and family history of premature ASCVD (FH-PASCVD) have emerged as reliable screening tools to be able to identify individuals at risk for ASCVD events. Positive FH-PASCVD is associated with higher absolute CAC scores in first-degree 'healthy' family members and the proportion of individuals above the CACs percentile threshold to warrant treatment is also higher as compared to the general population. Therefore, a positive FH-PASCVD identifies so-called high-risk families and adding CAC scoring within these families identifies individuals at increased risk for ASCVD events. In individuals from high-risk families with an elevated CAC score, ASCVD events can be prevented when treated with statins and aspirin. Therefore, we suggest assessing FH-PASCVD in young 'healthy' individuals as a first screening step and subsequently performing CAC scoring to be able to start treatment at an early stage, since not only the lower is better, but also the earlier is better.

Use of Coronary Artery Calcium Quantification and Distribution for Coronary Vascular Disease Risk Reclassification in a Primary Prevention Setting

In a large screening program of asymptomatic middle-aged individuals, we sought to assess the degree of risk reclassification provided by comparing multiethnic study on subclinical atherosclerosis coronary artery calcium scoring (CACS) versus atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and Reynolds risk score (RRS) score. All 5,324 consecutive patients (aged 57 ± 8 years, 76% male) who underwent CACS screening at the Cleveland Clinic as part of a primary prevention executive health between March 16 and October 21 were included. The 10-year ASCVD, RRS, and multiethnic study on subclinical atherosclerosis CACS (MESA-CACS) risk scores were calculated and categorized as <1, 1 to 4.99, 5 to 9.99, and ≥10%. Compared with ASCVD, using MESA-CACS resulted in a downgraded risk in 1,667 subjects (31%), whereas 738 (14%) had an upgrade in risk (total of 45% reclassification). Similarly, compared with RRS, using MESA-CACS resulted in an upgraded risk in 797 (15%) and a downgrade in 1,380 (26%) subjects (total of 41% reclassification). However, by further dividing by the distribution of the coronary calcification, ASCVD overestimates the risk only for patients with coronary artery calcium (CAC) in 0 or 1 coronary artery only, whereas MESA-CACS overestimates if the CAC was noted in ≥2 arteries. Similarly, RRS only overestimates the risk for patients with 0 CAC, whereas it underestimates the risk for patients with any CAC. In conclusion, the use of MESA-CACS, along with CAC distribution in primary prevention clinics, results in differential and significant reclassification of traditional scores when calculating the 10-years coronary vascular disease risk. Overall, RRS underestimates and ASCVD overestimates the cardiovascular disease risk compared with MESA-CACS.

Quantifying left ventricular myocardial strain in patients with different CAD-RADS levels based on computed tomography feature tracking technology

To evaluate myocardial strain in patients with different coronary artery disease-reporting and data system (CAD-RADS) levels using the computed tomography (CT) feature tracking technology and to investigate the relationship of myocardial strain with coronary artery calcium scores (CACs) and the degree of coronary artery stenosis. We prospectively enrolled 237 consecutive patients to undergo coronary CT angiography. The participants were divided into the following groups: control (n = 87), CAD-RADS 1 (n = 43), CAD-RADS 2 (n = 43), CAD-RADS 3 (n = 38), and CAD-RADS 4 and above (n = 26). Myocardial strains were analyzed by commercial software, and CACs and coronary stenosis were assessed on post-processing stations. Differences between multiple groups were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance or the Kruskal-Wallis test. Logistic regression were used to analyze the effects of dichotomous variables. As the CAD-RADS level increased, the global circumferential strain (GCS), global longitudinal strain (GLS) and global radial strain (GRS) of the left ventricle based on CT gradually decreased. A significant correlation was observed between global myocardial strain and CACs (GRS: r =  - 0.219, GCS: r = 0.189, GLS: r = 0.491; P < 0.05). The independent predictors of obstructive CAD were age (β = 0.065, odds ratio [OR] = 1.067, P = 0.005), left ventricular ejection fraction (β = 0.145, OR = 1.156, P = 0.047), and GLS (β = 0.232, OR = 1.261, P = 0.01). CT-derived GLS of the left ventricle is correlated with CAD-RADS levels and CACs. It may be a better indicator than CACs to reflect the severity of CAD.

Quantitative analysis of small coronary artery calcium detectability with an accurate simulation and validation on a clinical CT scanner

BACKGROUND

The absence of coronary artery calcium (CAC) measured via CT is associated with very favorable prognosis, and current guidelines recommend low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) lowering therapy for individuals with any CAC. This motivates early detection of small granules of CAC; however, calcium scan sensitivity for detecting very low levels of calcium has not been quantified.

PURPOSE

In this work, the size limit of detectability of small calcium hydroxyapatite (CaHA) granules with clinical CAC scanning was assessed using validated simulations.

METHODS

CT projections of digital 3D mathematical phantoms containing small CaHA granules were simulated analytically; images were reconstructed using a filter designed to reproduce the point spread function of a specific commercial scanner, and a relationship of HU number versus diameter was derived. These simulation results were validated with experimental measurements of HU versus diameter from phantoms containing small granules of CaHA on a GE Revolution CT scanner in the clinic; ground truth measurements of the CaHA granule diameters were obtained using a Zeiss Xradia 510 Versa high-resolution 3D micro-CT imaging system. Using experimental measurements on the clinical CT scanner, detectability was quantified with a detectability index (d') using a non-prewhitened matched filter. The effect of changes to reconstruction slice thickness and reconstruction kernel on granule detectability was evaluated.

RESULTS

Under typical clinical calcium scanning and reconstruction conditions, the minimum detectable diameter of a simulated spherical calcium granule with a clinically relevant CaHA density was 0.76 mm. The minimum detectable volume was 2.4 times smaller on images reconstructed at a slice thickness of 0.625 mm compared to 2.5 mm. The detectability index d' increased by a factor of 1.7 when images were reconstructed with 0.625 mm slices compared to 2.5 mm slices. d' did not change when images were reconstructed with the high-resolution BONE filter compared to the less sharp STANDARD resolution filter on the GE Revolution CT.

CONCLUSIONS

We have quantified detectability versus size of small calcium granules at the resolution limit of a widely available clinical CT scanner. Detectability increased significantly with reduced slice thickness and did not change with a sharper reconstruction kernel. The simulation can be used to calculate the trade-off between dose and CAC detectability.

Coronary artery calcium score: we know where we are but not where we may be

Cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a cost-effective and time-saving technique for excluding coronary artery disease. One valuable tool obtained by CCTA is the coronary artery calcium (CAC) score. The use of CAC scoring has shown promise in the risk assessment and stratification of cardiovascular disease. CAC scores can be complemented by plaque analysis to assess vulnerable plaque characteristics and further refine risk assessment. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the value of the CAC as a prognostic tool and its implications for patient risk assessment, treatment strategies, and outcomes. CAC scoring has demonstrated superior ability in stratifying patients, especially asymptomatic individuals, compared to traditional risk factors and scoring systems. The main evidence suggests that individuals with a CAC score of 0 have a good long-term prognosis, while an elevated CAC score is associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Finally, the clinical power of CAC scoring and the development of new models for risk stratification could be enhanced by machine learning algorithms.

Blood-Based and Imaging Biomarkers of Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is the main cause of arterial thrombosis, causing acute occlusive cardiovascular syndromes. Numerous risk prediction models have been developed, which mathematically combine multiple predictors, to estimate the risk of developing cardiovascular events. Current risk models typically do not include information from biomarkers that can potentially improve these existing prediction models especially if they are pathophysiologically relevant. Numerous cardiovascular disease biomarkers have been investigated that have focused on known pathophysiological pathways including those related to cardiac stress, inflammation, matrix remodelling, and endothelial dysfunction. Imaging biomarkers have also been studied that have yielded promising results with a potential higher degree of clinical applicability in detection of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular event prediction. To further improve therapy decision-making and guidance, there is continuing intense research on emerging biologically relevant biomarkers. As the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease is multifactorial, improvements in discrimination and reclassification in risk prediction models will likely involve multiple biomarkers. This article will provide an overview of the literature on potential blood-based and imaging biomarkers of atherosclerosis studied so far, as well as potential future directions.

Artificial intelligence using a deep learning versus expert computed tomography human reading in calcium score and coronary artery calcium data and reporting system classification

BACKGROUND

Artificial intelligence (AI) applied to cardiac imaging may provide improved processing, reading precision and advantages of automation. Coronary artery calcium (CAC) score testing is a standard stratification tool that is rapid and highly reproducible. We analyzed CAC results of 100 studies in order to determine the accuracy and correlation between the AI software (Coreline AVIEW, Seoul, South Korea) and expert level-3 computed tomography (CT) human CAC interpretation and its performance when coronary artery disease data and reporting system (coronary artery calcium data and reporting system) classification is applied.

METHODS

A total of 100 non-contrast calcium score images were selected by blinded randomization and processed with the AI software versus human level-3 CT reading. The results were compared and the Pearson correlation index was calculated. The CAC-DRS classification system was applied, and the cause of category reclassification was determined using an anatomical qualitative description by the readers.

RESULTS

The mean age was age 64.5 years, with 48% female. The absolute CAC scores between AI versus human reading demonstrated a highly significant correlation (Pearson coefficient R  = 0.996); however, despite these minimal CAC score differences, 14% of the patients had their CAC-DRS category reclassified. The main source of reclassification was observed in CAC-DRS 0-1, where 13 were recategorized, particularly between studies having a CAC Agatston score of 0 versus 1. Qualitative description of the errors showed that the main cause of misclassification was AI underestimation of right coronary calcium, AI overestimation of right ventricle densities and human underestimation of right coronary artery calcium.

CONCLUSION

Correlation between AI and human values is excellent with absolute numbers. When the CAC-DRS classification system was adopted, there was a strong correlation in the respective categories. Misclassified were predominantly in the category of CAC = 0, most often with minimal values of calcium volume. Additional algorithm optimization with enhanced sensitivity and specificity for low values of calcium volume will be required to enhance AI CAC score utilization for minimal disease. Over a broad range of calcium scores, AI software for calcium scoring had an excellent correlation compared to human expert reading and in rare cases determined calcium missed by human interpretation.

Interplay Between Zero CAC, Quantitative Plaque Analysis, and Adverse Events in a Diverse Patient Cohort

BACKGROUND

Coronary artery calcium scoring (CAC) has garnered attention in the diagnostic approach to chest pain patients. However, little is known about the interplay between zero CAC, sex, race, ethnicity, and quantitative coronary plaque analysis.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis from our computed tomography registry of patients with stable angina without prior myocardial infarction or revascularization undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography at Montefiore Healthcare System. Follow-up end points collected included invasive angiography, type-1 myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization, cardiovascular and all-cause death.

RESULTS

A total of 2249 patients were included (66% female). The median follow-up was 5.5 years. The median age of those without CAC was 52 years (interquartile range, 44-59) and 60 years (interquartile range, 53-68) in those with CAC. Most patients were Hispanic (58%), and the rest were non-Hispanic Black (28%), non-Hispanic White (10%), and non-Hispanic Asian (5%). The majority had CAC=0 (55%). The negative predictive value of CAC=0 was 92.8%, 99.9%, and 99.9% for any plaque, obstructive coronary artery stenosis, and the composite outcome of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, or coronary revascularization, respectively. Among patients without CAC (n=1237), 89 patients (7%) had evidence of plaque on their coronary computed tomography angiography with a median low-attenuation noncalcified plaque burden of 4% (2-7). There were no significant differences in the negative predictive value for CAC=0 by sex, race, or ethnicity. Patients with ≥2 risk factors had higher odds of having plaque with zero CAC.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, no sex, race, or ethnicity differences were demonstrated in the negative predictive value of a zero CAC; however, patients with ≥2 risk factors had a higher prevalence of plaque. A small percentage (7%) of symptomatic patients undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography with zero CAC had noncalcified coronary plaque, with the implication that caution is needed for downscaling of preventive treatment in patients with zero CAC, chest pain, and multiple risk factors.

The power of zero calcium in 82-Rubidium PET irrespective of sex and age

BACKGROUND

Despite clinical suspicion, many non-invasive tests for coronary artery disease (CAD) are normal. Coronary artery calcification score (CACS) is a well-validated method to detect and risk stratify CAD. Patients with zero calcium score (ZCS) rarely have abnormal tests. Therefore, aims were to evaluate CACS as a gatekeeper to further functional downstream testing for CAD and estimate potential radiation and cost savings.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with suspected CAD referred for PET were included (n = 2640). Prevalence and test characteristics of ZCS were calculated in different groups. Summed stress score ≥ 4 was considered abnormal and summed difference score ≥ 7 equivalent to ≥ 10% ischemia. To estimate potential radiation/cost reduction, PET scans were hypothetically omitted in ZCS patients.

RESULTS

Mean age was 65 ± 11 years, 46% were female. 21% scans were abnormal and 26% of patients had ZCS. CACS was higher in abnormal PET (median 561 vs 27, P < 0.001). Abnormal PET was significantly less frequent in ZCS patients (2.6% vs 27.6%, P < 0.001). Sensitivity/negative predictive value (NPV) of ZCS to detect/exclude abnormal PET and ≥ 10% ischemia were 96.8% (95%-CI 95.0%-97.9%)/97.4% (95.9%-98.3%) and 98.9% (96.7%-99.6%)/99.6% (98.7%-99.9%), respectively. Radiation and cost reduction were estimated to be 23% and 22%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

ZCS is frequent, and most often consistent with normal PET scans. ZCS offers an excellent NPV to exclude an abnormal PET and ≥ 10% ischemia across different gender and age groups. CACS is a suitable gatekeeper before advanced cardiac imaging, and potential radiation/cost savings are substantial. However, further studies including safety endpoints are needed.

Impact of Coronary Artery Calcium Score Screening on Cardiovascular Risk Stratification of Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Ablation

INTRODUCTION

There is a well-established association between atrial fibrillation (AF) and coronary artery disease. Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) is a helpful tool to refine cardiovascular (CV) risk stratification and inform on the best strategies for primary CV prevention. This study aims to evaluate the impact of opportunistic screening with CACS on risk stratification and decision of preventive therapies, in patients with AF.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study including patients with AF or atrial flutter undergoing cardiac computed tomography for ablation procedure planning, from 2017 to 2019. Baseline clinical and demographical data were collected. CACS was assessed in patients without coronary artery disease using the Agatston method.

RESULTS

A total of 474 patients were included (93% with AF, mean age of 58 ± 10 years, 62% male). CACS >0 was present in 254 (54%) patients. According to CACS and the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography recommendations, 25% of the patients would be candidates for statin therapy and 17% would be candidates for changes in the current statin intensity; in 11 patients (8%), acetylsalicylic acid would be recommended.

CONCLUSION

In our study, more than half of the patients undergoing cardiac computed tomography before AF catheter ablation had CACS above zero. Our findings suggest that an opportunistic evaluation of CACS at the time of ablation can be an important tool to improve CV risk stratification, with important clinical and therapeutic implications.

Association between Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Vascular Biomarkers in Primary Prevention

Several noninvasive vascular biomarkers have been proposed to improve risk stratification for atherothrombotic events. To identify biomarkers suitable for detecting intermediate-risk individuals who might benefit from lipid-lowering treatment in primary prevention, the present study tested the association of plasma LDL-cholesterol with coronary artery calcification (CAC) Agatston score, high carotid and femoral intima-media thickness (IMT), low carotid distensibility and high carotid-femoral pulse-wave velocity in 260 asymptomatic individuals at intermediate cardiovascular risk and without diabetes and lipid-lowering treatment. High or low vascular biomarkers were considered when their value was above the 95th or below the 5th percentile, respectively, of the distribution in the healthy or in the study population. LDL-cholesterol was independently associated with the CAC score = 0 (OR 0.67; 95%CI 0.48-0.92, p = 0.01), CAC score > 100 (1.59; 1.08-2.39, p = 0.01) and high common femoral artery (CFA) IMT (1.89; 1.19-3.06, p < 0.01), but not with other biomarkers. Our data confirm that in individuals at intermediate risk, lipid-lowering treatment can be avoided in the presence of a CAC score = 0, while it should be used with a CAC score > 100. CFA IMT could represent a useful biomarker for decisions regarding lipid-lowering treatment. However, sex- and age-specific reference values should be established in a large healthy population.

The Comparison of the Associations of Lipoprotein(a) and the Atherogenic Index of Plasma With Coronary Artery Calcification in Patients Without High LDL-C: A Comparative Analysis

Objective

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) and the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) have been reported as predictive markers of coronary artery calcium (CAC). However, previous studies demonstrated that the cardiovascular risk associations with Lp(a) are attenuated in patients with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels ≤135 mg/dL. However, few articles have identified the risk factors of CAC in patients without high LDL-C. Therefore, we performed this study to investigate the association of Lp(a) and AIP with CAC in patients with LDL-C levels ≤135 mg/dL.

Methods

This study included 625 lipid-lowering agent naive patients with LDL-C levels ≤135 mg/dL who underwent coronary computed tomographic angiography. We performed multivariate logistic regression analysis to evaluate the risk factors for a coronary artery calcium score (CACS) >0, CACS ≥400, and CAC ≥90th percentile.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 55.0±7.9 years and their mean LDL-C level was 94.7 ±23.3 mg/dL. Multivariate regression analysis showed that age, male sex, diabetes, hypertension, Lp(a), and AIP were independent predictors of CAS>0. Age, male sex, and diabetes were independent predictors of CACS≥400. Diabetes, hypertension, and AIP were independent predictors of CAC ≥90th percentile (all p<0.05). Unlike Lp(a), higher AIP tertiles were associated with significantly higher CAC percentiles and greater proportions of patients with CACS ≥400 and CAC ≥90th percentile.

Conclusion

In patients without high LDL-C, AIP could be a more reliable predictor of CAC than Lp(a).

Significance of coronary artery calcification for predicting major adverse cardiovascular events: results from the NADESICO study in Japan

BACKGROUND

We aimed to determine the usefulness and sex differences of assessment of coronary artery calcification (CAC) with cardiovascular risk factors and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in Japanese patients.

METHODS

In a nationwide, multicenter, prospective cohort study, 1187 patients with suspected coronary artery disease who underwent coronary computed tomography were enrolled. MACE included cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke, revascularization, and hospitalization for unstable angina, heart failure, or aortic disease. The concordance (C)-statistics were used to assess the relationships among the Suita risk score, CAC score, and incident MACE, with emphasis on sex differences.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 982 patients (mean age, 64.7 ± 6.6 years; 53.9 % male patients). MACE developed in 65 male and 21 female patients during a median follow-up of 1480 days. The C-statistics calculated using Suita score for MACE were 0.650, 0.633, and 0.569 in overall, male, and female patients, respectively. In overall patients, the C-statistic significantly increased in combined models of Agatston CAC scores of ≥100, 200, 300, or 400 and the Suita score. In each sex, the C-statistics significantly increased in the model that added an Agatston CAC score of ≥100 and ≥ 200 (+0.049 and + 0.057) in male patients, and ≥ 400 (+0.119) in females, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Adding assessment of Agatston CAC scores to Suita score was useful to improve the predictive ability for future MACE in Japanese patients. Agatston CAC scores of ≥100 or 200 in male and ≥ 400 in female patients in addition to Suita score improved the MACE risk prediction.

Performance of visual, manual, and automatic coronary calcium scoring of cardiac 13N-ammonia PET/low dose CT

BACKGROUND

Coronary artery calcium is a well-known predictor of major adverse cardiac events and is usually scored manually from dedicated, ECG-triggered calcium scoring CT (CSCT) scans. In clinical practice, a myocardial perfusion PET scan is accompanied by a non-ECG triggered low dose CT (LDCT) scan. In this study, we investigated the accuracy of patients' cardiovascular risk categorisation based on manual, visual, and automatic AI calcium scoring using the LDCT scan.

METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled 213 patients. Each patient received a 13N-ammonia PET scan, an LDCT scan, and a CSCT scan as the gold standard. All LDCT and CSCT scans were scored manually, visually, and automatically. For the manual scoring, we used vendor recommended software (Syngo.via, Siemens). For visual scoring a 6-points risk scale was used (0; 1-10; 11-100; 101-400; 401-100; > 1 000 Agatston score). The automatic scoring was performed with deep learning software (Syngo.via, Siemens). All manual and automatic Agatston scores were converted to the 6-point risk scale. Manual CSCT scoring was used as a reference.

RESULTS

The agreement of manual and automatic LDCT scoring with the reference was low [weighted kappa 0.59 (95% CI 0.53-0.65); 0.50 (95% CI 0.44-0.56), respectively], but the agreement of visual LDCT scoring was strong [0.82 (95% CI 0.77-0.86)].

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with the gold standard manual CSCT scoring, visual LDCT scoring outperformed manual LDCT and automatic LDCT scoring.

German Radiological Society and the Professional Association of German Radiologists Position Paper on Coronary computed tomography: Clinical Evidence and Quality of Patient Care in Chronic Coronary Syndrome

This position paper is a joint statement of the German Radiological Society (DRG) and the Professional Association of German Radiologists (BDR), which reflects the current state of knowledge about coronary computed tomography. It is based on preclinical and clinical studies that have investigated the clinical relevance as well as the technical requirements and fundamentals of cardiac computed tomography. CITATION FORMAT: · Langenbach MC, Sandstede J, Sieren M et al. DRG and BDR Position Paper on Coronary CT: Clinical Evidence and Quality of Patient Care in Chronic Coronary Syndrome. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2023; 195: 115 - 133.

Coronary plaque progression is greater in systemic lupus erythematosus than rheumatoid arthritis

BACKGROUND

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are associated with a high incidence of cardiovascular disease. Coronary atherosclerosis, particularly total plaque and noncalcified plaque on coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has been correlated with cardiovascular events. We compared baseline coronary plaque burden and progression by serial CCTA in SLE and RA patients.

METHODS

We prospectively evaluated 44 patients who underwent serial CCTA examinations to quantify coronary plaque progression, 22 SLE patients, and 22 age- and sex-matched RA patients. Semiautomated plaque software was used for quantitative plaque assessment. Linear regression examined the effect of SLE diagnosis (versus RA) on annualized change in natural log-transformed total normalized atheroma volume (ln-TAV norm ) for low-attenuation, fibrofatty, fibrous, total noncalcified, densely calcified, and total plaque.

RESULTS

No quantitative differences for any plaque types were observed at baseline between SLE and RA patients ( P  = 0.330-0.990). After adjustment for baseline plaque and cardiovascular risk factors, the increase in ln-TAV norm was higher in SLE than RA patients for fibrous [Exp-β: 0.202 (0.398), P  = 0.0003], total noncalcified [Exp-β: 0.179 (0.393), P  = 0.0001], and total plaque volume [Exp-β: 0.154 (0.501), P  = 0.0007], but not for low-attenuation, fibrofatty, or densely calcified plaque ( P  = 0.103-0.489). Patients with SLE had 80% more fibrous, 82% more noncalcified, and 85% more total plaque increase than those with RA.

CONCLUSION

Coronary plaque volume was similar in RA and SLE at baseline. Progression was greater in SLE, which may explain the greater cardiovascular risk in this disease. Further research to evaluate screening and management strategies for cardiovascular disease in these high-risk patients is warranted.

[German Radiological Society and the Professional Association of German Radiologists position paper on coronary computed tomography: clinical evidence and quality of patient care in chronic coronary syndrome]

This position paper is a joint statement of the German Radiological Society (DRG) and the Professional Association of German Radiologists (BDR), which reflects the current state of knowledge about coronary computed tomography (CT). It is based on preclinical and clinical studies that have investigated the clinical relevance as well as the technical requirements and fundamentals of cardiac computed tomography.

Coronary Artery Calcium Data and Reporting System (CAC-DRS): A Primer

The Coronary Artery Calcium Data and Reporting System (CAC-DRS) is a standardized reporting method for calcium scoring on computed tomography. CAC-DRS is applied on a per-patient basis and represents the total calcium score with the number of vessels involved. There are 4 risk categories ranging from CAC-DRS 0 to CAC-DRS 3. CAC-DRS also provides risk prediction and treatment recommendations for each category. The main strengths of CAC-DRS include a detailed and meaningful representation of CAC, improved communication between physicians, risk stratification, appropriate treatment recommendations, and uniform data collection, which provides a framework for education and research. The major limitations of CAC-DRS include a few missing components, an overly simple visual approach without any standard reference, and treatment recommendations lacking a basis in clinical trials. This consistent yet straightforward method has the potential to systemize CAC scoring in both gated and non-gated scans.

Coronary calcium score in the initial evaluation of suspected coronary artery disease

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring as an initial diagnostic tool in outpatients and in patients presenting at the emergency department due to suspected coronary artery disease (CAD).

METHODS

10 857 patients underwent CAC scoring and coronary CT angiography (CCTA) at Haukeland University Hospital in Norway during 2013-2020. Based on CCTA, obstructive CAD was defined as at least one coronary stenosis ≥50%. High-risk CAD included obstructive stenoses of the left main stem, the proximal left ascending artery or affecting all three major vascular territories with at least one proximal segment involved.

RESULTS

Median age was 58 years and 49.5% were women. The overall prevalence of CAC=0 was 45.0%. Among those with CAC=0, 1.8% had obstructive CAD and 0.6% had high-risk CAD on CCTA. Overall, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value (NPV) of CAC=0 for obstructive CAD were 95.3%, 53.4%, 30.0% and 98.2%, respectively. However, among patients <45 years of age, although the NPV was high at 98.9%, the sensitivity of CAC=0 for obstructive CAD was only 82.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

In symptomatic patients, CAC=0 correctly ruled out obstructive CAD and high-risk CAD in 98.2% and 99.4% of cases. This large registry-based cross-sectional study supports the incorporation of CAC testing in the early triage of patients with chest pain and as a gatekeeper to further cardiac testing. However, a full CCTA may be needed for safely ruling out obstructive CAD in the youngest patients (<45 years of age).

Imaging subclinical coronary atherosclerosis to guide lipid management, are we there yet?

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk (ASCVD) is an ongoing epidemic, and lipid abnormalities are its primordial cause. Most individuals suffering a first ASCVD event are previously asymptomatic and often do not receive preventative therapies. The cornerstone of primary prevention has been the identification of individuals at risk through risk calculators based on clinical and laboratory traditional risk factors plus risk enhancers. However, it is well accepted that a clinical risk calculator misclassifies a significant proportion of individuals leading to the prescription of a lipid-lowering medication with very little yield or a missed opportunity for lipid-lowering agents with a potentially preventable event. The development of coronary artery calcium scoring (CAC) and CT coronary angiography (CCTA) provide complementary tools to directly visualize coronary plaque and other risk-modifying imaging components that can potentially provide individualized lipid management. Understanding patient selection for CAC or potentially CCTA and the risk implications of the different parameters provided, such as CAC score, coronary stenosis, plaque characteristics and burden, epicardial adipose tissue, and pericoronary adipose tissue, have grown more complex as technologies evolve. These parameters directly affect the shared decision with patients to start or withhold lipid-lowering therapies, to adjust statin intensity or LDL cholesterol goals. Emerging lipid lowering studies with non-invasive imaging as a guide to patient selection and treatment efficacy, plus the evolution of lipid lowering therapies from statins to a diverse armament of newer high-cost agents have pushed these two fields forward with a complex interaction. This review will discuss existing risk estimators, and non-invasive imaging techniques for subclinical coronary atherosclerosis, traditionally studied using CAC and more recently CCTA with qualitative and quantitative measurements. We will also explore the current data, gaps of knowledge and future directions on the use of these techniques in the risk-stratification and guidance of lipid management.

Assessment of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Primary Prevention

PURPOSE

The objective of this report was to review the application of the pooled cohort equations in primary prevention and the assessment of cardiovascular health.

REVIEW METHODS

Literature review was conducted using the PubMed database. In addition, the 2018 Multi-Society Guidelines on Management of Blood Cholesterol and the 2019 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guidelines on the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease were reviewed.

SUMMARY

Primary prevention refers to individuals with no history of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, severe hypercholesterolemia, or diabetes. For these adults, aged 40-75 yr, who have a low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol of ≥70 mg/dL and <190 mg/dL, the pooled cohort equations should be used to provide a quantitative assessment of 10-yr atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk. From here, individuals are grouped as low risk (<5%), borderline risk (5 to <7.5%), intermediate risk (7.5 to <20%), or high risk (≥20%). Statin therapy should be strongly advised in those with an atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk of ≥20%, while statin therapy can be considered in those with a risk between 5% and <20%, especially if risk enhancing factors are present. If uncertainty still exists regarding treatment, a coronary artery calcium score can help further refine risk. All individuals, regardless of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk, should have a cardiovascular health assessment using Life's Essential 8, which includes diet, physical activity, nicotine exposure, body mass index, blood glucose, blood lipids, blood pressure, and sleep.

Cardiovascular Imaging in China: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow

The high prevalence and mortality of cardiovascular diseases in China's large population has increased the use of cardiovascular imaging for the assessment of conditions in recent years. In this study, we review the past 20 years of cardiovascular imaging in China, the increasingly important role played by cardiovascular computed tomography in coronary artery disease and pulmonary embolism assessment, magnetic resonance imaging's use for cardiomyopathy assessment, the development and application of artificial intelligence in cardiovascular imaging, and the future of Chinese cardiovascular imaging.

AI-Supported Comprehensive Detection and Quantification of Biomarkers of Subclinical Widespread Diseases at Chest CT for Preventive Medicine

Automated image analysis plays an increasing role in radiology in detecting and quantifying image features outside of the perception of human eyes. Common AI-based approaches address a single medical problem, although patients often present with multiple interacting, frequently subclinical medical conditions. A holistic imaging diagnostics tool based on artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential of providing an overview of multi-system comorbidities within a single workflow. An interdisciplinary, multicentric team of medical experts and computer scientists designed a pipeline, comprising AI-based tools for the automated detection, quantification and characterization of the most common pulmonary, metabolic, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal comorbidities in chest computed tomography (CT). To provide a comprehensive evaluation of each patient, a multidimensional workflow was established with algorithms operating synchronously on a decentralized Joined Imaging Platform (JIP). The results of each patient are transferred to a dedicated database and summarized as a structured report with reference to available reference values and annotated sample images of detected pathologies. Hence, this tool allows for the comprehensive, large-scale analysis of imaging-biomarkers of comorbidities in chest CT, first in science and then in clinical routine. Moreover, this tool accommodates the quantitative analysis and classification of each pathology, providing integral diagnostic and prognostic value, and subsequently leading to improved preventive patient care and further possibilities for future studies.

Comparison of conventional scoring systems to machine learning models for the prediction of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography

BACKGROUND

The study aims to compare the prognostic performance of conventional scoring systems to a machine learning (ML) model on coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) to discriminate between the patients with and without major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) and to find the most important contributing factor of MACE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From November to December 2019, 500 of 1586 CCTA scans were included and analyzed, then six conventional scores were calculated for each participant, and seven ML models were designed. Our study endpoints were all-cause mortality, non-fatal myocardial infarction, late coronary revascularization, and hospitalization for unstable angina or heart failure. Score performance was assessed by area under the curve (AUC) analysis.

RESULTS

Of 500 patients (mean age: 60 ± 10; 53.8% male subjects) referred for CCTA, 416 patients have met inclusion criteria, 46 patients with early (<90 days) cardiac evaluation (due to the inability to clarify the reason for the assessment, deterioration of the symptoms vs. the CCTA result), and 38 patients because of missed follow-up were not enrolled in the final analysis. Forty-six patients (11.0%) developed MACE within 20.5 ± 7.9 months of follow-up. Compared to conventional scores, ML models showed better performance, except only one model which is eXtreme Gradient Boosting had lower performance than conventional scoring systems (AUC:0.824, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.701-0.947). Between ML models, random forest, ensemble with generalized linear, and ensemble with naive Bayes were shown to have higher prognostic performance (AUC: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.85-0.99, AUC: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.81-0.98, and AUC: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.82-0.97), respectively. Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) had the highest correlation with MACE.

CONCLUSION

Compared to the conventional scoring system, ML models using CCTA scans show improved prognostic prediction for MACE. Anatomical features were more important than clinical characteristics.

The Prognostic Value of CAC Zero Among Individuals Presenting With Chest Pain: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

There is little consensus on whether absence of coronary artery calcium (CAC) can identify patients with chest pain (CP) who can safely avoid additional downstream testing.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis investigating the utility of CAC assessment for ruling out obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) among patients with stable and acute CP, at low-to-intermediate risk of obstructive CAD undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA).

METHODS

The authors searched online databases for studies published between 2005 and 2021 examining the relationship between CAC and obstructive CAD (≥50% coronary luminal narrowing) on coronary CTA among patients with stable and acute CP.

RESULTS

In this review, the authors included 19 papers comprising 79,903 patients with stable CP and 13 papers including 12,376 patients with acute CP undergoing simultaneous CAC and coronary CTA assessment. Overall, 45% (95% CI: 40%-50%) of patients with stable CP and 58% (95% CI: 50%-66%) of patients with acute CP had CAC = 0. The negative predictive values for CAC = 0 ruling out obstructive CAD were 97% (95% CI: 96%-98%) and 98% (95% CI: 96%-99%) among patients with stable and acute CP, respectively. Additionally, the prevalence of nonobstructive CAD among those with CAC = 0 was 13% (95% CI: 10%-16%) among those with stable CP and 9% (95% CI: 5%-13%) among those with acute CP. A CAC score of zero predicted a low incidence of major adverse cardiac events among patients with stable CP (0.5% annual event rate) and acute CP (0.8% overall event rate).

CONCLUSIONS

Among over 92,000 patients with stable or acute CP, the absence of CAC was associated with a very low prevalence of obstructive CAD, a low prevalence of nonobstructive CAD, and a low annualized risk of major adverse cardiac events. These findings support the role of CAC = 0 in a value-based health care delivery model as a "gatekeeper" for more advanced imaging among patients presenting with CP.

Serum Homocysteine and Vascular Calcification: Advances in Mechanisms, Related Diseases, and Nutrition

Identifying and preventing modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease is very important. Vascular calcification has been studied clinically as an asymptomatic preclinical marker of atherosclerosis and a risk factor for cardio-cerebrovascular disease. It is known that higher homocysteine levels are associated with calcified plaques and the higher the homocysteine level, the higher the prevalence and progression of vascular calcification. Homocysteine is a byproduct of methionine metabolism and is generally maintained at a physiological level. Moreover, it may increase if the patient has a genetic deficiency of metabolic enzymes, nutritional deficiencies of related cofactors (vitamins), chronic diseases, or a poor lifestyle. Homocysteine is an oxidative stress factor that can lead to calcified plaques and trigger vascular inflammation. Hyperhomocysteinemia causes endothelial dysfunction, transdifferentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells, and the induction of apoptosis. As a result of transdifferentiation and cell apoptosis, hydroxyapatite accumulates in the walls of blood vessels. Several studies have reported on the mechanisms of multiple cellular signaling pathways that cause inflammation and calcification in blood vessels. Therefore, in this review, we take a closer look at understanding the clinical consequences of hyperhomocysteinemia and apply clinical approaches to reduce its prevalence.

Preventive cardiology advances in the 2021 AHA/ACC chest pain guideline

A core principle of the 2021 AHA/ACC/ASE/CHEST/SAEM/SCCT/SCMR Chest Pain Guideline is the importance of preventive therapies among patients with nonobstructive or obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). Accordingly, this editorial provides unique insights that emphasize the role of preventive cardiology throughout the new guideline. For the first time, CAD was defined to also include nonobstructive plaque. This definition was based on the fact that individuals who have nonobstructive plaque are at an increased risk of atherosclerotic events compared with those who do not. Herein, we highlight guideline recommendations related to the diagnosis and management of nonobstructive CAD. We also highlight recommendations which emphasize the importance of preventive therapies. Adoption of these recommendations have the potential to lead to enhanced preventive therapies and improve patient outcomes.

Association of coronary artery calcium score with qualitatively and quantitatively assessed adverse plaque on coronary CT angiography in the SCOT-HEART trial

AIMS

Coronary artery calcification is a marker of cardiovascular risk, but its association with qualitatively and quantitatively assessed plaque subtypes is unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this post-hoc analysis, computed tomography (CT) images and 5-year clinical outcomes were assessed in SCOT-HEART trial participants. Agatston coronary artery calcium score (CACS) was measured on non-contrast CT and was stratified as zero (0 Agatston units, AU), minimal (1-9 AU), low (10-99 AU), moderate (100-399 AU), high (400-999 AU), and very high (≥1000 AU). Adverse plaques were investigated by qualitative (visual categorization of positive remodelling, low-attenuation plaque, spotty calcification, and napkin ring sign) and quantitative (calcified, non-calcified, low-attenuation, and total plaque burden; Autoplaque) assessments. Of 1769 patients, 36% had a zero, 9% minimal, 20% low, 17% moderate, 10% high, and 8% very high CACS. Amongst patients with a zero CACS, 14% had non-obstructive disease, 2% had obstructive disease, 2% had visually assessed adverse plaques, and 13% had low-attenuation plaque burden >4%. Non-calcified and low-attenuation plaque burden increased between patients with zero, minimal, and low CACS (P < 0.001), but there was no statistically significant difference between those with medium, high, and very high CACS. Myocardial infarction occurred in 41 patients, 10% of whom had zero CACS. CACS >1000 AU and low-attenuation plaque burden were the only predictors of myocardial infarction, independent of obstructive disease, and 10-year cardiovascular risk score.

CONCLUSION

In patients with stable chest pain, zero CACS is associated with a good but not perfect prognosis, and CACS cannot rule out obstructive coronary artery disease, non-obstructive plaque, or adverse plaque phenotypes, including low-attenuation plaque.

The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis-Calcium Score Improves Statin Treatment Allocation in Asymptomatic Adults

Background

The current categorization of cardiovascular (CV) risk broadens the indications for statin therapy. Coronary artery calcium (CAC) identifies those who are most likely to benefit from primary prevention with statin therapy. The multi-ethnic study of atherosclerosis-calcium (MESA-C) includes CAC for CV risk stratification.

Objective

We aimed to establish whether the MESA-C score improves allocation to statin treatment in a cohort of asymptomatic adults. We also analyzed patient survival according to their risk score calculation.

Design

A retrospective analysis of asymptomatic adults.

Participants

A total of 632 consecutive subjects free of coronary artery disease (CAD) and/or stroke, mean age 56 ± 7 years, 84% male, underwent clinical evaluations and CAC measurements.

Main Measures

PCE and MESA-C risk scores were calculated for each subject. According to the 10-year risk for CV events, subjects were classified into moderate and high CV risk (≥7.5%) for whom a statin is clearly indicated, or borderline and low CV risk (<7.5%).

Key Results

During mean follow-up of 6.5 ± 3.3 years, 52 subjects experienced their first CV event. Those with a MESA-C risk score < 7.5% had favorable outcomes even when the PCE indicated a risk of ≥ 7.5%. The MESA-C score improved the discrimination of CV risk with the ROC curves C-statistics increasing from 0.653 for the PCE to 0.770 for the MESA-C. Of those, 84% (99/118) with borderline CV risk (5–7.5%) according to the PCE score, were reallocated by the MESA-C score into a higher (≥7.5%) or lower (<5%) CV risk category. Furthermore, subjects with low MESA-C scores had the highest survival rate regardless of the PCE risk, while those with high MESA-C risks had the lowest survival rate regardless of the PCE risk.

Conclusion

In asymptomatic subjects, the MESA-C score improves allocation to statin treatment and CV risk discrimination, while both scores are essential for more precise survival estimations.

Coronary artery- and aortic valve calcifications in patients with Philadelphia-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms

BACKGROUND

Patients with the hematological cancers Philadelphia-negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPNs) have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, whether MPNs have an increased burden of cardiac calcification has not been thoroughly investigated. Our aim is to investigate whether patients with MPNs have an increased burden of cardiac calcification that could help explain their increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We recruited 161 patients (mean age 65 years, 52% men) with an MPN diagnosis between 2016 and 2018. Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) and aortic valve calcification (AVC) were measured by cardiac computer tomography, and detailed information on cardiovascular risk factors was recorded. MPNs were matched on age and sex, with 805 controls from the Copenhagen General Population Study. A CACS>400 was present in 26% of MPNs and 19% of controls (p = 0.031). AVC was present in 58% of MPNs and 34% of controls (p < 0.0001). After adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors, the odds ratio (OR) of a CACS>400 was 1.9 (95% CI 1.2-3.1, p = 0.008) in MPNs compared to controls, and the OR of AVC was 4.4 (95% CI 2.9-6.9, p < 0.0001) in MPNs compared to controls.

CONCLUSION

Patients with MPNs have a significantly higher prevalence of a CACS >400 and AVC, compared to controls from the general population. The association between MPN and a CACS>400 or AVC remains significant after adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors. These novel data support the hypothesis that MPNs have an increased burden of cardiac calcifications, independent of other cardiovascular risk factors.

Role of the coronary and non-coronary cardiovascular findings on non-cardiac gated thoracic CT in predicting mortality in SARS-CoV-2 infection

Background

The potential effects of cardiovascular comorbidities on the clinical outcomes in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection remain unclear. Identification of the coronary and non-coronary cardiovascular findings may help to stratify the patients' prognosis. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic impact of the coronary and the non-coronary cardiovascular findings in SARS-CoV-2 patients.

Methods

We studied a total of 594 SARS-CoV-2 patients who were hospitalized and performed a non-cardiac gated thoracic computed tomography. Two blinded radiologists assessed the coronary artery calcification segment involvement score (CACSIS) and non-coronary atherosclerosis cardiovascular findings (NCACVF). The baseline characteristics of the patients and CT findings were evaluated according to survival status. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the independent predictors of mortality.

Results

At a mean follow-up of 8 (4–12.5) days, 44 deaths occurred (7.4%). Compared to survivors, non-survivors had increased CACSIS [27.3% (CACSIS = 0) vs 25% (CACSIS 1–5) vs 47.7% (CACSIS >5), p < 0.001]. Similarly, on NCACVF, non-survivors had much more major findings compared to survivors (29.5% vs. 2.7%, respectively, p < 0.001). At multivariable analysis, age (p = 0.009), creatinine (p < 0.001), hs-cTnI (p = 0.004) and NCACVF (HR 1.789; 95% CI 1.053–3.037; p = 0.031) maintained a significant independent association with in-hospital mortality.

Conclusion

Our study shows that coronary and non-coronary cardiovascular findings on non-cardiac gated thoracic CT may help to predict mortality in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.