Moderate coronary artery calcification shown on CT Scan.

[VDOWN]

I recently had a non contrast CT scan (unrelated to heart issues). On the report it notes 'Moderate coronary artery calcification'. My previous CT scans have never noted this. I'm 63, weigh 60 kilos, fit, and with ideal cholestrol levels. The CT scan was not scored, but an incidental observation. Can anyone shine any light on this comment as its rather concerning.

[nilmonisikdar40]

Yes, fellow patient. I went through the same experience as you had when in March 2021, I had a Coronary CT scan at St Thomas Hospital , London. In my case too, heavy calcium plaque was reported and the imager refused to proceed with the dye saying that it would be as waste of time. However , it was frustrating to know he could not comment on calcium score and so the whole one day journey was a sheer waste of time. Since then I am waiting for a non CT coronary angiography but before that I would be subject to a stress echocardiogram with dobutamine for which I am waiting. I empathise with you and I hope I have been of some source of information.

[VDOWN in reply to nilmonisikdar40]

Indeed. I did some background reading and established that 'if' it was a scored CT scan, the range for moderate would be between 101 - 400. I noted the comments on the report, but have not been told about it by the requesting consultant or advised what to do. So I have no idea what it means, how it will effect me, and no medical investigation has been planned or offered. I'm now in medical limbo.

[nilmonisikdar40 in reply to VDOWN]

No, I don't think you should be in a limbo. I heard from a reliable source of cardiac radiologists that 50% could not give a damn about calcium score and 50% does. So you and I are experimental piggy in the middle and that should not happen. I would like you to insist that you wanted to know what is the significance of calcium score whether you habe a problem with your coronary arteries and require intervention.

[wischo]

Same happened to me on an abdominal scan 6 years ago and the report said some calcium noted on coronary artery likely cause some degree of CVD. Nothing was done about this until I started feeling tired when exercising three yrs ago. Had a cardio stress test showing ST depression, followed by an angiogram and a left arterial stent fitted due to 85% blockage. Worth taking this further if I were you. Feeling great now so turned out well in the end.

[EMBoy]

Hi VDOWN,

Cheeky question, but do you smoke, or have you ever smoked?

I smoked quite heavily for nearly 50 years (I am now 66) until I had an episode of syncope that landed me in hospital to have a pacemaker fitted. All my bloods (including cholesterol) were normal, and the cardiologist blamed my condition on smoking. He made an appointment for me to have a CT angiogram, and I ended up just having the CT as I took a reaction to the dye. The result came back as only minor calcifications, but in a letter to my GP, the cardiologist asked her to keep an eye on me and let him know if I showed any sign of heart failure.

I think that this just shows that one's calcium score may not be an accurate measure of risk.

I am 2 years and 9 months down the line now, and haven't smoked at all, and am pleased to say that there are no signs of heart failure yet.

[VDOWN in reply to EMBoy]

I smoked for around 20 years, then gave up 23 years ago. BMI of 19, fit and pretty much only eat fresh food. Must be in the genes