The calcium score test helps estimate the risk of having a coronary event within the next 10 years.
The term “SCORE” stands for Systematic Coronary Risk Estimation.
It’s an imaging exam done in a radiology clinic using a CT scan, without the need for iodine-based contrast injection.
How does this test work?
The calcium score measures the amount of calcium that has built up in the coronary arteriesThe two coronary arteries, the right and the left, form the blood network that supplies the heart with oxygen and nutrients. They are located directly on the surface of the heart and branch into smaller vessels that. This calcium gradually forms in atherosclerotic plaques—a sign of chronic inflammation caused by cholesterolCholesterol is essential for the proper functioning of the human body, but it can also have harmful effects if present in excess. >> buildup.
There is a strong correlation between the presence of calcified and non-calcified plaques. So even though the scan only detects calcium, it still provides a good estimate of the total plaque burden in the coronary arteriesThe two coronary arteries, the right and the left, form the blood network that supplies the heart with oxygen and nutrients. They are located directly on the surface of the heart and branch into smaller vessels that, helping to assess the risk of coronary arteryThe two coronary arteries, the right and the left, form the blood network that supplies the heart with oxygen and nutrients. They are located directly on the surface of the heart and branch into smaller vessels that disease.
Who should get this test?
The calcium score test is a complementary tool used to assess medium-term cardiovascular risk, over a five-year period. It’s especially helpful when other risk evaluation methods give uncertain results.
Cardiovascular risk is typically estimated using the Framingham Risk Score, a method widely available online. This tool considers several factors such as age, cholesterolCholesterol is essential for the proper functioning of the human body, but it can also have harmful effects if present in excess. >> levels, bloodBlood is composed of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide. White blood cells make up our immune defense system. Platelets contribute to blood pressure, and lifestyle habits. For most people, this initial assessment is enough.
Recommended reading: Assessing Cardiovascular Risk
Who should NOT get this test:
Pregnant women should avoid this test to prevent exposure to X-rays, which could be harmful to the fetus.
The calcium score test is also not recommended if you have no cardiovascular risk factors, if you’ve already been diagnosed with atherosclerotic coronary arteryThe two coronary arteries, the right and the left, form the blood network that supplies the heart with oxygen and nutrients. They are located directly on the surface of the heart and branch into smaller vessels that disease, or if you have symptoms suggesting coronary arteryThe two coronary arteries, the right and the left, form the blood network that supplies the heart with oxygen and nutrients. They are located directly on the surface of the heart and branch into smaller vessels that disease.
An appointment-based test
The calcium score is an outpatient test that requires scheduling an appointment in advance.
A quick and simple exam
This is a non-invasive test that takes only a few minutes to complete.
No preparation required
There are no dietary restrictions before the exam. You do not need to fast, and no special preparation is needed.
Taking your medications
You can continue your usual medications as prescribed. They will not interfere with the test or its results.
On the day of the exam
When you arrive at the radiology department, your identity will be confirmed, and you’ll be given a gown to wear for the procedure.
How the procedure works
The CT scan room is kept at a cool temperature to ensure the machine functions properly.
- The medical imaging technologist helps position you on the exam table.
- Your arms are usually placed above your head to allow for better imaging.
- Four electrodes are placed on your chest to record your heart’s electrical activity.
- During the scan, you’ll be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time.
The test is quick and involves no major discomfort.
Understanding your results
The images from the scan are used to measure how much calcium is present in the coronary arteriesThe two coronary arteries, the right and the left, form the blood network that supplies the heart with oxygen and nutrients. They are located directly on the surface of the heart and branch into smaller vessels that and to estimate the risk of a coronary event over the next 10 years.
- Score under 100: Suggests mild or minimal coronary atherosclerosis, with a low risk of a heart event—estimated at less than 10%.
- Score between 100 and 400: Indicates an intermediate risk, between 10% and 20%, of having heart-related complications during the same period. Whether further testing is needed will depend on additional risk factors and the results of follow-up clinical evaluations.
- Score over 400: Signals a high likelihood of significant narrowing in the coronary arteriesThe two coronary arteries, the right and the left, form the blood network that supplies the heart with oxygen and nutrients. They are located directly on the surface of the heart and branch into smaller vessels that, with a risk of a cardiac event greater than 20%.
This level of calcium warrants further assessment, especially if you experience symptoms suggestive of heart disease, such as chest pain during exertion or unusual shortness of breath.
Depending on the situation, additional tests may be recommended—such as a stress test, stress echocardiogram, myocardial perfusion imaging (nuclear scan), or even a coronary angiogram—to better understand the extent of the problem and guide appropriate treatment.
Results to the doctor
The results of the exam are sent directly to the doctor who requested it.
Requesting additional copies
It is also possible to request that a copy of the results be sent to another healthcare professional. To do so, simply provide their name and contact information to the staff at the time of the exam.
Related articles
Latest articles
