CT SCAN CALCIUM SCORING

A normal coronary CT calcium (Agatston) score is 0 — no detectable coronary calcium and very low short-term risk of coronary events. Scores of 1–10 are minimal, 11–100 mild, 101–400 moderate, and >400 indicate extensive calcification and higher risk. Results are interpreted with age, sex and clinical risk factors to guide prevention and treatment.

A CT calcium score test detects and measures calcium in the coronary arteries using a non-invasive CT scan. The amount of calcification (Agatston score) helps estimate a person’s risk of coronary artery disease and future heart attack, refine cardiovascular risk assessment—especially in asymptomatic or intermediate-risk individuals—and guide preventive treatment decisions such as lifestyle changes and cholesterol-lowering therapy.

A CT coronary calcium score can be worthwhile for selected people: it quantifies coronary plaque, improves risk prediction, and helps guide preventive treatment (for example, starting statins) in asymptomatic adults at intermediate cardiovascular risk or with a strong family history. It’s low‑radiation and noninvasive but won’t show stenosis or plaque stability, so it’s unnecessary for low‑risk individuals or when treatment is already indicated.

A high coronary CT calcium (CAC) score does not directly prove an active arterial blockage; it reflects the amount of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. Higher scores strongly correlate with greater likelihood of obstructive coronary disease and increased risk of heart attack. Additional evaluation (CT angiography, stress testing) and clinical assessment determine whether a flow‑limiting stenosis is present and guide treatment.

Normal total serum calcium for a 70‑year‑old is about 8.5–10.2 mg/dL (2.12–2.55 mmol/L). Because albumin often changes with age, clinicians commonly use albumin‑corrected or ionized calcium for more accurate assessment. Mild deviations may reflect medications, kidney disease, or parathyroid disorders. Discuss abnormal results, symptoms, and follow‑up testing with your healthcare provider.

You usually can’t reverse existing coronary calcium, but you can slow progression and lower heart-attack risk. Key steps: stop smoking; follow a Mediterranean-style diet; exercise ≥150 minutes weekly; control blood pressure, cholesterol (often with statins), and blood sugar; maintain a healthy weight; and take prescribed medications. Discuss individualized treatment and monitoring with your doctor.