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Dimitriadis K, Pyrpyris N, Theofilis P, Mantzouranis E, Beneki E, Kostakis P, Koutsopoulos G, Aznaouridis K, Aggeli K, Tsioufis K. Computed Tomography Angiography Identified High-Risk Coronary Plaques: From Diagnosis to Prognosis and Future Management. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1671. [PMID: 39125547 PMCID: PMC11311283 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14151671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
CT angiography has become, in recent years, a main evaluating modality for patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Recent advancements in the field have allowed us to identity not only the presence of obstructive disease but also the characteristics of identified lesions. High-risk coronary atherosclerotic plaques are identified in CT angiographies via a number of specific characteristics and may provide prognostic and therapeutic implications, aiming to prevent future ischemic events via optimizing medical treatment or providing coronary interventions. In light of new evidence evaluating the safety and efficacy of intervening in high-risk plaques, even in non-flow-limiting disease, we aim to provide a comprehensive review of the diagnostic algorithms and implications of plaque vulnerability in CT angiography, identify any differences with invasive imaging, analyze prognostic factors and potential future therapeutic options in such patients, as well as discuss new frontiers, including intervening in non-flow-limiting stenoses and the role of CT angiography in patient stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyriakos Dimitriadis
- First Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Hippokration General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (N.P.); (P.T.); (E.M.); (E.B.); (P.K.); (G.K.); (K.A.); (K.A.); (K.T.)
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McDermott M, Meah MN, Khaing P, Wang KL, Ramsay J, Scott G, Rickman H, Burt T, McGowan I, Fairbairn T, Bucukoglu M, Bull R, Timmis A, van Beek EJR, Roditi G, Adamson PD, Lewis S, Norrie J, McKinstry B, Guthrie B, Ritchie L, Mills NL, Dweck MR, Williams MC, Newby DE. Rationale and Design of SCOT-HEART 2 Trial: CT Angiography for the Prevention of Myocardial Infarction. JACC Cardiovasc Imaging 2024:S1936-878X(24)00228-6. [PMID: 39001735 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmg.2024.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Coronary artery disease continues to be the leading cause of death globally. Identifying patients who are at risk of coronary artery disease remains a public health priority. At present, the focus of cardiovascular disease prevention relies heavily on probabilistic risk scoring despite no randomized controlled trials demonstrating their efficacy. The concept of using imaging to guide preventative therapy is not new, but has previously focused on indirect measures such as carotid intima-media thickening or coronary artery calcification. In recent trials, patients found to have coronary artery disease on computed tomography (CT) coronary angiography were more likely to be started on preventative therapy and had lower rates of cardiac events. This led to the design of the SCOT-HEART 2 (Scottish Computed Tomography of the Heart 2) trial, which aims to determine whether screening with the use of CT coronary angiography is more clinically effective than cardiovascular risk scoring to guide the use of primary preventative therapies and reduce the risk of myocardial infarction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael McDermott
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
| | - Mohammed N Meah
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Phyo Khaing
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Kang-Ling Wang
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | - Gillian Scott
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah Rickman
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Timothy Fairbairn
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Liverpool Heart and Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Marise Bucukoglu
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Russell Bull
- University Hospital Dorset, Dorset, United Kingdom
| | - Adam Timmis
- The William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University, London, United Kingdom
| | - Edwin J R van Beek
- Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Giles Roditi
- NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom; School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Philip D Adamson
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Steff Lewis
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - John Norrie
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Brian McKinstry
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Bruce Guthrie
- Advanced Care Research Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Lewis Ritchie
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas L Mills
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Marc R Dweck
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle C Williams
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - David E Newby
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
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3
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Lee SN, Lin A, Dey D, Berman DS, Han D. Application of Quantitative Assessment of Coronary Atherosclerosis by Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography. Korean J Radiol 2024; 25:518-539. [PMID: 38807334 PMCID: PMC11136945 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2023.1311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a pivotal tool for diagnosing and risk-stratifying patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Recent advancements in image analysis and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques have enabled the comprehensive quantitative analysis of coronary atherosclerosis. Fully quantitative assessments of coronary stenosis and lumen attenuation have improved the accuracy of assessing stenosis severity and predicting hemodynamically significant lesions. In addition to stenosis evaluation, quantitative plaque analysis plays a crucial role in predicting and monitoring CAD progression. Studies have demonstrated that the quantitative assessment of plaque subtypes based on CT attenuation provides a nuanced understanding of plaque characteristics and their association with cardiovascular events. Quantitative analysis of serial CCTA scans offers a unique perspective on the impact of medical therapies on plaque modification. However, challenges such as time-intensive analyses and variability in software platforms still need to be addressed for broader clinical implementation. The paradigm of CCTA has shifted towards comprehensive quantitative plaque analysis facilitated by technological advancements. As these methods continue to evolve, their integration into routine clinical practice has the potential to enhance risk assessment and guide individualized patient management. This article reviews the evolving landscape of quantitative plaque analysis in CCTA and explores its applications and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su Nam Lee
- Department of Imaging and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Andrew Lin
- Monash Cardiovascular Research Centre, Victorian Heart Institute, Monash University and MonashHeart, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Damini Dey
- Department of Imaging and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Daniel S Berman
- Department of Imaging and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Donghee Han
- Department of Imaging and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Manubolu VS, Ichikawa K, Budoff MJ. Innovations in cardiac computed tomography: Imaging in coronary artery disease. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2024; 84:51-59. [PMID: 38754532 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2024.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a pivotal tool in the non-invasive evaluation of coronary artery disease (CAD). Recent advancements in imaging techniques, quantitative plaque assessment methods, assessment of coronary physiology, and perivascular coronary inflammation have propelled CCTA to the forefront of CAD management, enabling precise risk stratification, disease monitoring, and evaluation of treatment response. However, challenges persist, including the need for cardiovascular outcomes data for therapy modifications based on CCTA findings and the lack of standardized quantitative plaque assessment techniques to establish universal guidelines for treatment strategies. This review explores the current utilization of CCTA in clinical practice, highlighting its clinical impact and discussing challenges and opportunities for future development. By addressing these nuances, CCTA holds promise for revolutionizing coronary imaging and improving CAD management in the years to come. Ultimately, the goal is to provide precise risk stratification, optimize medical therapy, and improve cardiovascular outcomes while ensuring cost-effectiveness for healthcare systems.
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Lorenzatti D, Piña P, Huang D, Apple SJ, Fernandez-Hazim C, Ippolito P, Abdullah A, Rodriguez-Guerra M, Skendelas JP, Scotti A, Kuno T, Latib A, Schenone AL, Nasir K, Blankstein R, Blaha MJ, Berman DS, Dey D, Virani SS, Garcia MJ, Slipczuk L. Interaction Between Risk Factors, Coronary Calcium, and CCTA Plaque Characteristics in Patients Age 18-45. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2024:jeae094. [PMID: 38578944 DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jeae094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS The atherosclerotic profile and advanced plaque subtype burden in symptomatic patients ≤45 years old have not been established. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and predictors of coronary artery calcium (CAC), plaque subtypes, and plaque burden by coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) in symptomatic young patients. METHODS AND RESULTS We included 907 symptomatic young patients (18-45 years) from Montefiore undergoing CCTA for chest pain evaluation. Prevalence and predictors of CAC, plaque subtypes, and burden were evaluated using semi-automated software. In the overall population (55% female and 44% Hispanic), 89% had CAC = 0. The likelihood of CAC or any plaque by CCTA increased with >3 risk factors (RF, OR 7.13 [2.14-23.7] and OR 10.26 [3.36-31.2], respectively). Any plaque by CCTA was present in 137 (15%); the strongest independent predictors were age ≥35 years (OR 3.62 [2.05-6.41]) and family history of premature CAD (FHx) (OR 2.76 [1.67-4.58]). Stenosis ≥50% was rare (1.8%), with 31% of those having CAC = 0. Significant non-calcified (NCP, 37.2%) and low-attenuation (LAP, 4.24%) plaque burdens were seen, even in those with non-obstructive stenosis. Among patients with CAC = 0, 5% had plaque, and the only predictor of exclusively non-calcified plaque was FHx (OR 2.29 [1.08-4.86]). CONCLUSIONS In symptomatic young patients undergoing CCTA, the prevalence of CAC or any coronary atherosclerosis was not negligible, and the likelihood increased with RF burden. The presence of coronary stenosis ≥50% was rare and most often accompanied by CAC > 0 but there was a significant burden of NCP and LAP even within the non-obstructive group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Lorenzatti
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Pamela Piña
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
- Department of Cardiology, CEDIMAT. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Dou Huang
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Samuel J Apple
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Carol Fernandez-Hazim
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Paul Ippolito
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Aftab Abdullah
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Miguel Rodriguez-Guerra
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - John P Skendelas
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Andrea Scotti
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Toshiki Kuno
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Azeem Latib
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Aldo L Schenone
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Khurram Nasir
- Division of Cardiovascular Prevention and Wellness. Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center. Houston Methodist. Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ron Blankstein
- Departments of Medicine (Cardiovascular Division) and Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital. Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael J Blaha
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Daniel S Berman
- Department of Imaging, Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Damini Dey
- Department of Imaging, Medicine, and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Salim S Virani
- Office of the Vice Provost (Research), The Aga Khan University. Karachi, Pakistan. Division of Cardiology, The Texas Heart Institute/Baylor College of Medicine. Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mario J Garcia
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Leandro Slipczuk
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
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Jabbour RJ, Curzen N. How will coronary physiology, plaque vulnerability and ischemia be integrated in future patient pathways with chest pain? Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2024; 22:141-143. [PMID: 38679907 DOI: 10.1080/14779072.2024.2347224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Jabbour
- Cardiology, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Nick Curzen
- Cardiology, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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7
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Selvam PV, Grandhi GR, Leucker TM, Arbab-Zadeh A, Gulati M, Blumenthal RS, Whelton SP. Recent advances in cardiovascular risk assessment: The added value of non-invasive anatomic imaging. J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2024; 18:113-119. [PMID: 38326189 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2024.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
In 2022, multiple original research studies were conducted highlighting the utility of coronary artery calcium (CAC) imaging in young individuals and provided further evidence for the role of CAC to improve atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk assessment. Mean calcium density was shown to be a more reliable predictor than peak density in risk assessment. Additionally, in light of the ACC/AHA/Multispecialty Chest Pain Guideline's recent elevation of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) to a Class I (level of evidence A) recommendation as an index diagnostic test for acute or stable chest pain, several studies support the utility of CCTA and guided future directions. This review summarizes recent studies that highlight the role of non-invasive imaging in enhancing ASCVD risk assessment across different populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja V Selvam
- Department of Internal Medicine, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gowtham R Grandhi
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Thorsten M Leucker
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Armin Arbab-Zadeh
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Roger S Blumenthal
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Seamus P Whelton
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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8
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Leipsic JA, Chandrashekhar Y. Novel Analytics for Coronary CT Angiography: Advancing Our Understanding of Risk and Mechanisms of MI. JACC Cardiovasc Imaging 2024; 17:345-347. [PMID: 38448132 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmg.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
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9
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Williams MC. Quantitative Coronary Artery Plaque Distributions on Computed Tomography Angiography. JACC Cardiovasc Imaging 2024; 17:176-178. [PMID: 37855797 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmg.2023.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle C Williams
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
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10
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Föllmer B, Williams MC, Dey D, Arbab-Zadeh A, Maurovich-Horvat P, Volleberg RHJA, Rueckert D, Schnabel JA, Newby DE, Dweck MR, Guagliumi G, Falk V, Vázquez Mézquita AJ, Biavati F, Išgum I, Dewey M. Roadmap on the use of artificial intelligence for imaging of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque in coronary arteries. Nat Rev Cardiol 2024; 21:51-64. [PMID: 37464183 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-023-00900-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is likely to revolutionize the way medical images are analysed and has the potential to improve the identification and analysis of vulnerable or high-risk atherosclerotic plaques in coronary arteries, leading to advances in the treatment of coronary artery disease. However, coronary plaque analysis is challenging owing to cardiac and respiratory motion, as well as the small size of cardiovascular structures. Moreover, the analysis of coronary imaging data is time-consuming, can be performed only by clinicians with dedicated cardiovascular imaging training, and is subject to considerable interreader and intrareader variability. AI has the potential to improve the assessment of images of vulnerable plaque in coronary arteries, but requires robust development, testing and validation. Combining human expertise with AI might facilitate the reliable and valid interpretation of images obtained using CT, MRI, PET, intravascular ultrasonography and optical coherence tomography. In this Roadmap, we review existing evidence on the application of AI to the imaging of vulnerable plaque in coronary arteries and provide consensus recommendations developed by an interdisciplinary group of experts on AI and non-invasive and invasive coronary imaging. We also outline future requirements of AI technology to address bias, uncertainty, explainability and generalizability, which are all essential for the acceptance of AI and its clinical utility in handling the anticipated growing volume of coronary imaging procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Föllmer
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | | | - Damini Dey
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute and Department of Imaging, Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Armin Arbab-Zadeh
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Pál Maurovich-Horvat
- Department of Radiology, Medical Imaging Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Rick H J A Volleberg
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Daniel Rueckert
- Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Healthcare, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Computing, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Julia A Schnabel
- School of Biomedical Imaging and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- Institute of Machine Learning in Biomedical Imaging, Helmholtz Munich, Neuherberg, Germany
- School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - David E Newby
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Marc R Dweck
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Giulio Guagliumi
- Division of Cardiology, IRCCS Galeazzi Sant'Ambrogio Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Volkmar Falk
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Charité Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Health Science and Technology, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité and DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Federico Biavati
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ivana Išgum
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Physics, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Informatics Institute, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marc Dewey
- Department of Radiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
- Berlin Institute of Health, Campus Charité Mitte, Berlin, Germany.
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Berlin and Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité (DHZC), Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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11
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Vecsey-Nagy M, Kolossváry M, Varga-Szemes A, Boussoussou M, Vattay B, Nagy M, Juhász D, Merkely B, Radovits T, Szilveszter B. Low-attenuation coronary plaque burden and troponin release in chronic coronary syndrome: A mediation analysis. J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2024; 18:18-25. [PMID: 37867127 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2023.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronary low-attenuation plaque (LAP) burden is a strong predictor of myocardial infarction in patients with stable chest pain. We aimed to assess the relationship between LAP burden and circulating levels of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT), and to explore the potential underlying etiology in patients undergoing clinically indicated coronary CT angiography (CCTA). METHODS A comprehensive metabolic and lipid panel, as well as C-reactive protein (CRP) and hs-cTnT tests were obtained from consecutive patients with stable chest pain at the time of CCTA. Qualitative and quantitative coronary plaque analysis, CT-derived fractional flow reserve (FFR) calculation, and pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT) attenuation measurement around the right coronary artery were performed on CCTA images. Linear regression analyses were performed to identify independent associations with hs-cTnT concentration and mediation analysis was used to assess whether ischemia or markers of inflammation mediate hs-cTnT elevation. RESULTS In total, 114 patients (56.3 ± 10.6 years, 44.7 % female) were enrolled. In multivariable analysis, age (β = 0.04 [95%CI: 0.02; 0.06], p < 0.001), female sex (β = -0.77 [95%CI: -1.20; 0.33], p < 0.001), and LAP burden (β = 0.03 [95%CI: 0.001; 0.06], p = 0.04) were independently associated with hs-cTnT levels. Mediation analysis, on the other hand, did not identify a significant mediating effect of lesion-specific ischemia based on CT-FFR, circulating CRP levels, or PCAT values between LAP burden and hs-cTnT levels (all p > 0.05). CONCLUSION Although ischemia and inflammation have previously been proposed to mediate the association between LAP burden and hs-cTnT levels, our results did not confirm the role of these pathophysiological pathways in patients with stable chest pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milán Vecsey-Nagy
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Márton Kolossváry
- Gottsegen National Cardiovascular Center, Budapest, Hungary; Physiological Controls Research Center, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Akos Varga-Szemes
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | | | - Borbála Vattay
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Martin Nagy
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dénes Juhász
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Béla Merkely
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Radovits
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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12
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Kwiecinski J, Tzolos E, Williams MC, Dey D, Berman D, Slomka P, Newby DE, Dweck MR. Noninvasive Coronary Atherosclerotic Plaque Imaging. JACC Cardiovasc Imaging 2023; 16:1608-1622. [PMID: 38056987 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmg.2023.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite remarkable advances in the management of coronary artery disease, the prediction of adverse coronary events remains challenging. Over the preceding decades, considerable effort has been made to improve risk stratification using noninvasive imaging. Recently, these efforts have increasingly focused on the direct imaging of coronary atherosclerotic plaque. Modern imaging now allows imaging of coronary plaque burden, plaque type, atherosclerotic plaque activity, and plaque thrombosis, which have major potential to refine patient risk stratification, aid decision making, and advance future clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Kwiecinski
- Department of Interventional Cardiology and Angiology, Institute of Cardiology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Evangelos Tzolos
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle C Williams
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Damini Dey
- Division of Artificial Intelligence, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Imaging, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Daniel Berman
- Division of Artificial Intelligence, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Imaging, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Piotr Slomka
- Division of Artificial Intelligence, Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Imaging, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - David E Newby
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Marc R Dweck
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
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13
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Greer C, Williams MC, Newby DE, Adamson PD. Role of computed tomography cardiac angiography in acute chest pain syndromes. Heart 2023; 109:1350-1356. [PMID: 36914247 DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2022-321360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Use of CT coronary angiography (CTCA) to evaluate chest pain has rapidly increased over the recent years. While its utility in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease in stable chest pain syndromes is clear and is strongly endorsed by international guidelines, the role of CTCA in the acute setting is less certain. In the low-risk setting, CTCA has been shown to be accurate, safe and efficient but inherent low rates of adverse events in this population and the advent of high-sensitivity troponin testing have left little room for CTCA to show any short-term clinical benefit.In higher-risk populations, CTCA has potential to fulfil a gatekeeper role to invasive angiography. The high negative predictive value of CTCA is maintained while also identifying non-obstructive coronary disease and alternative diagnoses in the substantial group of patients presenting with chest pain who do not have type 1 myocardial infarction. For those with obstructive coronary disease, CTCA provides accurate assessment of stenosis severity, characterisation of high-risk plaque and findings associated with perivascular inflammation. This may allow more appropriate selection of patients to proceed to invasive management with no disadvantage in outcomes and can provide a more comprehensive risk stratification to guide both acute and long-term management than routine invasive angiography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Greer
- Christchurch Heart Institute, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
| | | | - David E Newby
- Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Philip D Adamson
- Christchurch Heart Institute, University of Otago Christchurch, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
- Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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14
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Tavakoli S, Duman E. Uncovering the Potential of Lipid Core Quantification for Predicting Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events. Radiology 2023; 308:e231546. [PMID: 37606575 PMCID: PMC10477503 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.231546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sina Tavakoli
- From the Department of Radiology (S.T., E.D.), Department of Medicine (S.T.), and Heart, Lung, Blood, and Vascular Medicine Institute (S.T.), University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, 200 Lothrop St, Suite E200, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| | - Emrah Duman
- From the Department of Radiology (S.T., E.D.), Department of Medicine (S.T.), and Heart, Lung, Blood, and Vascular Medicine Institute (S.T.), University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, 200 Lothrop St, Suite E200, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
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15
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Lu ZF, Yin WH, Schoepf UJ, Abrol S, Ma JW, Yu XB, Zhao L, Su XM, Wang CS, An YQ, Xiao ZC, Lu B. Residual Risk in Non-ST-Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome: Quantitative Plaque Analysis at Coronary CT Angiography. Radiology 2023; 308:e230124. [PMID: 37606570 DOI: 10.1148/radiol.230124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Background Lipid-rich plaques detected with intravascular imaging are associated with adverse cardiovascular events in patients with non-ST-segment elevation (NSTE) acute coronary syndrome (ACS). But evidence about the prognostic implication of coronary CT angiography (CCTA) in NSTE ACS is limited. Purpose To assess whether quantitative variables at CCTA that reflect lipid content in nonrevascularized plaques in individuals with NSTE ACS might be predictors of subsequent nonrevascularized plaque-related major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). Materials and Methods In this multicenter prospective cohort study, from November 2017 to January 2019, individuals diagnosed with NSTE ACS (excluding those at very high risk) were enrolled and underwent CCTA before invasive coronary angiography (ICA) within 1 day. Lipid core was defined as areas with attenuation less than 30 HU in plaques. MACEs were defined as cardiac death, myocardial infarction, hospitalization for unstable angina, and revascularization. Participants were followed up at 6 months, 12 months, and annually thereafter for at least 3 years (ending by July 2022). Multivariable analysis using Cox proportional hazards regression models was performed to determine the association between lipid core burden, lipid core volume, and future nonrevascularized plaque-related MACEs at both the participant and plaque levels. Results A total of 342 participants (mean age, 57.9 years ± 11.1 [SD]; 263 male) were included for analysis with a median follow-up period of 4.0 years (IQR, 3.6-4.4 years). The 4-year nonrevascularized plaque-related MACE rate was 23.9% (95% CI: 19.1, 28.5). Lipid core burden (hazard ratio [HR], 12.6; 95% CI: 4.6, 34.3) was an independent predictor at the participant level, with an optimum threshold of 2.8%. Lipid core burden (HR, 12.1; 95% CI: 6.6, 22.3) and volume (HR, 11.0; 95% CI: 6.5, 18.4) were independent predictors at the plaque level, with an optimum threshold of 7.2% and 10.1 mm3, respectively. Conclusion In NSTE ACS, quantitative analysis of plaque lipid content at CCTA independently predicted participants and plaques at higher risk for future nonrevascularized plaque-related MACEs. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry no. ChiCTR1800018661 © RSNA, 2023 Supplemental material is available for this article. See also the editorial by Tavakoli and Duman in this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Fei Lu
- From the Department of Radiology (Z.F.L., W.H.Y., J.W.M., L.Z., Y.Q.A., B.L.), NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Research for Cardiovascular Medications (X.M.S.), and Medical Research & Biometrics Center (C.S.W.), State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, #167 Bei-Li-Shi Street, Beijing 100037, People's Republic of China; Departments of Radiology (Z.F.L.) and Cardiology (Z.C.X.), Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (U.J.S., S.A.); and CT Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers, Beijing, People's Republic of China (X.B.Y.)
| | - Wei-Hua Yin
- From the Department of Radiology (Z.F.L., W.H.Y., J.W.M., L.Z., Y.Q.A., B.L.), NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Research for Cardiovascular Medications (X.M.S.), and Medical Research & Biometrics Center (C.S.W.), State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, #167 Bei-Li-Shi Street, Beijing 100037, People's Republic of China; Departments of Radiology (Z.F.L.) and Cardiology (Z.C.X.), Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (U.J.S., S.A.); and CT Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers, Beijing, People's Republic of China (X.B.Y.)
| | - U Joseph Schoepf
- From the Department of Radiology (Z.F.L., W.H.Y., J.W.M., L.Z., Y.Q.A., B.L.), NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Research for Cardiovascular Medications (X.M.S.), and Medical Research & Biometrics Center (C.S.W.), State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, #167 Bei-Li-Shi Street, Beijing 100037, People's Republic of China; Departments of Radiology (Z.F.L.) and Cardiology (Z.C.X.), Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (U.J.S., S.A.); and CT Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers, Beijing, People's Republic of China (X.B.Y.)
| | - Sameer Abrol
- From the Department of Radiology (Z.F.L., W.H.Y., J.W.M., L.Z., Y.Q.A., B.L.), NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Research for Cardiovascular Medications (X.M.S.), and Medical Research & Biometrics Center (C.S.W.), State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, #167 Bei-Li-Shi Street, Beijing 100037, People's Republic of China; Departments of Radiology (Z.F.L.) and Cardiology (Z.C.X.), Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (U.J.S., S.A.); and CT Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers, Beijing, People's Republic of China (X.B.Y.)
| | - Jing-Wen Ma
- From the Department of Radiology (Z.F.L., W.H.Y., J.W.M., L.Z., Y.Q.A., B.L.), NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Research for Cardiovascular Medications (X.M.S.), and Medical Research & Biometrics Center (C.S.W.), State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, #167 Bei-Li-Shi Street, Beijing 100037, People's Republic of China; Departments of Radiology (Z.F.L.) and Cardiology (Z.C.X.), Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (U.J.S., S.A.); and CT Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers, Beijing, People's Republic of China (X.B.Y.)
| | - Xian-Bo Yu
- From the Department of Radiology (Z.F.L., W.H.Y., J.W.M., L.Z., Y.Q.A., B.L.), NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Research for Cardiovascular Medications (X.M.S.), and Medical Research & Biometrics Center (C.S.W.), State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, #167 Bei-Li-Shi Street, Beijing 100037, People's Republic of China; Departments of Radiology (Z.F.L.) and Cardiology (Z.C.X.), Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (U.J.S., S.A.); and CT Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers, Beijing, People's Republic of China (X.B.Y.)
| | - Li Zhao
- From the Department of Radiology (Z.F.L., W.H.Y., J.W.M., L.Z., Y.Q.A., B.L.), NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Research for Cardiovascular Medications (X.M.S.), and Medical Research & Biometrics Center (C.S.W.), State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, #167 Bei-Li-Shi Street, Beijing 100037, People's Republic of China; Departments of Radiology (Z.F.L.) and Cardiology (Z.C.X.), Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (U.J.S., S.A.); and CT Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers, Beijing, People's Republic of China (X.B.Y.)
| | - Xiao-Ming Su
- From the Department of Radiology (Z.F.L., W.H.Y., J.W.M., L.Z., Y.Q.A., B.L.), NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Research for Cardiovascular Medications (X.M.S.), and Medical Research & Biometrics Center (C.S.W.), State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, #167 Bei-Li-Shi Street, Beijing 100037, People's Republic of China; Departments of Radiology (Z.F.L.) and Cardiology (Z.C.X.), Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (U.J.S., S.A.); and CT Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers, Beijing, People's Republic of China (X.B.Y.)
| | - Chuang-Shi Wang
- From the Department of Radiology (Z.F.L., W.H.Y., J.W.M., L.Z., Y.Q.A., B.L.), NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Research for Cardiovascular Medications (X.M.S.), and Medical Research & Biometrics Center (C.S.W.), State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, #167 Bei-Li-Shi Street, Beijing 100037, People's Republic of China; Departments of Radiology (Z.F.L.) and Cardiology (Z.C.X.), Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (U.J.S., S.A.); and CT Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers, Beijing, People's Republic of China (X.B.Y.)
| | - Yun-Qiang An
- From the Department of Radiology (Z.F.L., W.H.Y., J.W.M., L.Z., Y.Q.A., B.L.), NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Research for Cardiovascular Medications (X.M.S.), and Medical Research & Biometrics Center (C.S.W.), State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, #167 Bei-Li-Shi Street, Beijing 100037, People's Republic of China; Departments of Radiology (Z.F.L.) and Cardiology (Z.C.X.), Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (U.J.S., S.A.); and CT Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers, Beijing, People's Republic of China (X.B.Y.)
| | - Zhi-Cheng Xiao
- From the Department of Radiology (Z.F.L., W.H.Y., J.W.M., L.Z., Y.Q.A., B.L.), NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Research for Cardiovascular Medications (X.M.S.), and Medical Research & Biometrics Center (C.S.W.), State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, #167 Bei-Li-Shi Street, Beijing 100037, People's Republic of China; Departments of Radiology (Z.F.L.) and Cardiology (Z.C.X.), Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (U.J.S., S.A.); and CT Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers, Beijing, People's Republic of China (X.B.Y.)
| | - Bin Lu
- From the Department of Radiology (Z.F.L., W.H.Y., J.W.M., L.Z., Y.Q.A., B.L.), NHC Key Laboratory of Clinical Research for Cardiovascular Medications (X.M.S.), and Medical Research & Biometrics Center (C.S.W.), State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, #167 Bei-Li-Shi Street, Beijing 100037, People's Republic of China; Departments of Radiology (Z.F.L.) and Cardiology (Z.C.X.), Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Qingdao University, Yantai, People's Republic of China; Department of Radiology and Radiological Science and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC (U.J.S., S.A.); and CT Collaboration, Siemens Healthineers, Beijing, People's Republic of China (X.B.Y.)
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16
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Meah MN, Wereski R, Bularga A, van Beek EJR, Dweck MR, Mills NL, Newby DE, Dey D, Williams MC, Lee KK. Coronary low-attenuation plaque and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin. Heart 2023; 109:702-709. [PMID: 36631142 PMCID: PMC10357930 DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2022-321867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In patients with acute chest pain who have had myocardial infarction excluded, plasma cardiac troponin I concentrations ≥5 ng/L are associated with risk of future adverse cardiovascular events. We aim to evaluate the association between cardiac troponin and coronary plaque composition in such patients. METHODS In a prespecified secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study, blinded quantitative plaque analysis was performed on 242 CT coronary angiograms of patients with acute chest pain in whom myocardial infarction was excluded. Patients were stratified by peak plasma cardiac troponin I concentration ≥5 ng/L or <5 ng/L. Associations were assessed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. RESULTS The cohort was predominantly middle-aged (62±12 years) men (69%). Patients with plasma cardiac troponin I concentration ≥5 ng/L (n=161) had a higher total (median 33% (IQR 0-47) vs 0% (IQR 0-33)), non-calcified (27% (IQR 0-37) vs 0% (IQR 0-28)), calcified (2% (IQR 0-8) vs 0% (IQR 0-3)) and low-attenuation (1% (IQR 0-3) vs 0% (IQR 0-1)) coronary plaque burden compared with those with concentrations <5 ng/L (n=81; p≤0.001 for all). Low-attenuation plaque burden was independently associated with plasma cardiac troponin I concentration ≥5 ng/L after adjustment for clinical characteristics (adjusted OR per doubling 1.62 (95% CI 1.17 to 2.32), p=0.005) or presence of any visible coronary artery disease (adjusted OR per doubling 1.57 (95% CI 1.07 to 2.37), p=0.026). CONCLUSION In patients with acute chest pain but without myocardial infarction, plasma cardiac troponin I concentrations ≥5 ng/L are associated with greater burden of low-attenuation coronary plaque.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed N Meah
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ryan Wereski
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anda Bularga
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Edwin J R van Beek
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Edinburgh, UK
- Edinburgh Imaging Facility, Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Marc R Dweck
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Nicholas L Mills
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Edinburgh, UK
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - David E Newby
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Damini Dey
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Kuan Ken Lee
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Edinburgh, UK
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17
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Lorenzatti D, Piña P, Csecs I, Schenone AL, Gongora CA, Garcia MJ, Blaha MJ, Budoff MJ, Williams MC, Dey D, Berman DS, Virani SS, Slipczuk L. Does Coronary Plaque Morphology Matter Beyond Plaque Burden? Curr Atheroscler Rep 2023; 25:167-180. [PMID: 36808390 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-023-01088-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Imaging of adverse coronary plaque features by coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has advanced greatly and at a fast pace. We aim to describe the evolution, present and future in plaque analysis, and its value in comparison to plaque burden. RECENT FINDINGS Recently, it has been demonstrated that in addition to plaque burden, quantitative and qualitative assessment of coronary plaque by CCTA can improve the prediction of future major adverse cardiovascular events in diverse coronary artery disease scenarios. The detection of high-risk non-obstructive coronary plaque can lead to higher use of preventive medical therapies such as statins and aspirin, help identify culprit plaque, and differentiate between myocardial infarction types. Even more, over traditional plaque burden, plaque analysis including pericoronary inflammation can potentially be useful tools for tracking disease progression and response to medical therapy. The identification of the higher risk phenotypes with plaque burden, plaque characteristics, or ideally both can allow the allocation of targeted therapies and potentially monitor response. Further observational data are now required to investigate these key issues in diverse populations, followed by rigorous randomized controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Lorenzatti
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Healthcare Network/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Pamela Piña
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Healthcare Network/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
- Cardiology Division, CEDIMAT Cardiovascular Center, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Ibolya Csecs
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Healthcare Network/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Aldo L Schenone
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Healthcare Network/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Carlos A Gongora
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Healthcare Network/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Mario J Garcia
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Healthcare Network/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Michael J Blaha
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Matthew J Budoff
- Department of Medicine, Lundquist Institute at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Michelle C Williams
- BHF Centre of Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Edinburgh Imaging, Queen's Medical Research Institute University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Damini Dey
- Department of Imaging, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Daniel S Berman
- Department of Imaging, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Salim S Virani
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Leandro Slipczuk
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Healthcare Network/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
- Clinical Cardiology, Advanced Cardiac Imaging, CV Atherosclerosis and Lipid Disorder Center, Montefiore Health System, NewYork, USA.
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18
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Koh N, Nieman K. Role of cardiac imaging in acute chest pain. Br J Radiol 2023; 96:20220307. [PMID: 36533544 PMCID: PMC9975370 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20220307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Chest pain is the second most common complaint in the emergency department. The need to diagnose the cause of chest pain in a timely manner and appropriately direct care is crucial. This article discusses the role of imaging in acute chest pain, after first differentiating chest pain into cardiac and non-cardiac causes with upfront clinical and biochemical assessment. The role of non-invasive imaging including point-of-care ultrasound, echocardiography, myocardial perfusion imaging, cardiac MRI, coronary computed tomography angiography and novel cardiac CT applications are discussed. Updates in the literature regarding the role of coronary plaque imaging in acute chest pain are reviewed, as are ongoing challenges and future directions. This includes a discussion on the yield of diagnostic testing in low-risk acute chest pain cohorts vs intermediate-high risk cohorts. The incremental value of further testing in the former is low, which is reflected in contemporary guidelines that discourage the use of costly diagnostic tests in these cohorts. In the latter cohort, emerging evidence has shown specifically the role coronary computed tomography angiography could play in reducing the need for invasive coronary angiography in selective patients where the true probability of acute coronary syndrome is thought to be low. Real-world considerations such as accessibility and affordability are also discussed in the paper because while guidelines offer clinicians the flexibility of evidence-based choice, physician decision must necessarily be made in consideration of real-world constraints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Koh
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Koen Nieman
- Departments of Cardiovascular Medicine and Radiology, Stanford University, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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19
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Piña P, Lorenzatti D, Paula R, Daich J, Schenone AL, Gongora C, Garcia MJ, Blaha MJ, Budoff MJ, Berman DS, Virani SS, Slipczuk L. Imaging subclinical coronary atherosclerosis to guide lipid management, are we there yet? Am J Prev Cardiol 2022; 13:100451. [PMID: 36619296 PMCID: PMC9813535 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpc.2022.100451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Piña
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Daniel Lorenzatti
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Rita Paula
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan Daich
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Aldo L Schenone
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Carlos Gongora
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Mario J Garcia
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Michael J Blaha
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease. Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Matthew J Budoff
- Department of Medicine, Lundquist Institute at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Daniel S Berman
- Department of Imaging, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Salim S Virani
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine. Baylor College of Medicine, and Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
- The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Leandro Slipczuk
- Cardiology Division, Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Bronx, NY, USA
- Corresponding author.
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20
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Wang KL, Meah MN, Bularga A, Singh T, Williams MC, Newby DE. Computed tomography coronary angiography in non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Br J Radiol 2022; 95:20220346. [PMID: 36017975 PMCID: PMC9733606 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20220346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Electrocardiography and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin testing are routinely applied as the initial step for clinical evaluation of patients with suspected non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Once diagnosed, patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction are commenced on antithrombotic and secondary preventative therapies before undergoing invasive coronary angiography to determine the strategy of coronary revascularisation. However, this clinical pathway is imperfect and can lead to challenges in the diagnosis, management, and clinical outcomes of these patients. Computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) has increasingly been utilised in the setting of patients with suspected non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, where it has an important role in avoiding unnecessary invasive coronary angiography and reducing downstream non-invasive functional testing for myocardial ischaemia. CTCA is an excellent gatekeeper for the cardiac catheterisation laboratory. In addition, CTCA provides complementary information for patients with myocardial infarction in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease and highlights alternative or incidental diagnoses for those with cardiac troponin elevation. However, the routine application of CTCA has yet to demonstrate an impact on subsequent major adverse cardiovascular events. There are several ongoing studies evaluating CTCA and its associated technologies that will define and potentially expand its application in patients with suspected or diagnosed non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. We here review the current evidence relating to the clinical application of CTCA in patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and highlight the areas where CTCA is likely to have an increasing important role and impact for our patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammed N Meah
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Anda Bularga
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Trisha Singh
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle C Williams
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - David E Newby
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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21
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Is Coronary Plaque Quantification More Important Than Stenosis Detection in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome? JACC Cardiovasc Imaging 2022; 15:1926-1928. [PMID: 36357134 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmg.2022.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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22
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Mergen V, Eberhard M, Manka R, Euler A, Alkadhi H. First in-human quantitative plaque characterization with ultra-high resolution coronary photon-counting CT angiography. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:981012. [PMID: 36148053 PMCID: PMC9485480 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.981012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PurposeTo assess the effect of ultra-high-resolution coronary CT angiography (CCTA) with photon-counting detector (PCD) CT on quantitative coronary plaque characterization.Materials and methodsIn this IRB-approved study, 22 plaques of 20 patients (7 women; mean age 77 ± 8 years, mean body mass index 26.1 ± 3.6 kg/m2) undergoing electrocardiography (ECG)-gated ultra-high-resolution CCTA with PCD-CT were included. Images were reconstructed with a smooth (Bv40) and a sharp (Bv64) vascular kernel, with quantum iterative reconstruction (strength level 4), and using a slice thickness of 0.6, 0.4, and 0.2 mm, respectively (field-of-view 200 mm × 200 mm, matrix size 512 × 512 pixels). Reconstructions with the Bv40 kernel and slice thickness of 0.6 mm served as the reference standard. After identification of a plaque in coronary arteries with a vessel diameter ≥2 mm, plaque composition was determined using a dedicated, semi-automated plaque quantification software. Total plaque, calcified, fibrotic, and lipid-rich plaque components were quantified in all datasets.ResultsMedian plaque volume was highest (23.5 mm3, interquartiles 17.9–34.3 mm3) for reconstructions with the reference standard and lowest for ultra-high-resolution reconstructions with a slice thickness of 0.2 mm and the Bv64 kernel (18.1 mm3, interquartiles 14.1–25.8 mm3, p < 0.001). Reconstructions with the reference standard showed largest calcified (85.1%, interquartiles 76.4–91.1%) and smallest lipid-rich plaque components (0.5%, interquartiles 0.0–1.5%). Smallest calcified plaque components (75.2%, interquartiles 69.9–80.8%) and largest lipid-rich components (6.7%, interquartiles 5.1–8.4%) were found for ultra-high-resolution reconstructions with a slice thickness of 0.2 mm and the Bv64 kernel. At an identical slice thickness, volume of calcified components was always lower, and volume of lipid-rich components was always higher for reconstructions with the Bv64 kernel compared with reconstructions with the Bv40 kernel (all, p < 0.001).ConclusionThis patient study indicates significant differences of ultra-high-resolution scanning with PCD-CT on quantitative coronary plaque characterization. Reduced blooming artifacts may allow improved visualization of fibrotic and lipid-rich plaque components with the ultra-high-resolution mode of PCD-CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Mergen
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Eberhard
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Robert Manka
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - André Euler
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hatem Alkadhi
- Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Hatem Alkadhi,
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