Carotid intima–media thickness: ultrasound measurement, prognostic value and role in clinical practice. Issue 1046 (3rd July 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nair, Satheesh Balakrishnan; Malik, Rayaz; Khattar, Rajdeep S
• Is Part Of: Postgraduate medical journal. Volume 88:Issue 1046(2012)
• Page Start: 694
• Page End: 699
• Publication Date: 2012-07-03
• Subjects: Cardiology -- ischaemic heart disease -- valvular heart disease -- cardiac epidemiology -- echocardiography -- thoracic medicine -- statistics and research methods -- education and training (see medical education and training) -- medical education and training -- internal medicine; Medicine -- Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/postgradmedj-2011-130214
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0032-5473

Abstract

Abstract : Ultrasound measurement of carotid intima–media thickness (IMT) has become a valuable tool for detecting and monitoring progression of atherosclerosis and recently published recommendations provide guidance for proper standardisation of these measurements. Important determinants of carotid IMT include age, gender, systolic blood pressure, diabetes mellitus and serum cholesterol levels. Many studies have shown carotid IMT to correlate with the severity of coronary atherosclerosis assessed by CT coronary calcification scores, coronary angiography and intravascular ultrasound. Consistent with its correlation with cardiovascular risk factors and coronary artery disease, a meta-analysis of large observational studies has shown carotid IMT to be a strong predictor of future cardiovascular events. Moreover, in patients with established coronary artery disease a reduction in carotid IMT has been shown to translate into a reduction in future cardiovascular events. Consensus statements now also recommend carotid IMT measurements to further refine the prognostic assessment of patients traditionally considered to be at an intermediate risk of cardiovascular disease.