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Coronary Artery Calcium Score

Meaning

The Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) Score is a non-invasive, quantitative diagnostic measure derived from a specialized computed tomography (CT) scan that accurately quantifies the total burden of calcified atherosclerotic plaque within the walls of the coronary arteries. This score serves as a remarkably robust and independent predictor of future cardiovascular events, offering a precise, early snapshot of subclinical atherosclerosis progression. Clinicians utilize this essential metric to significantly refine cardiovascular risk stratification beyond conventional risk factors, thereby guiding individualized preventative treatment strategies.