Finding the right tests…
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Finding the right tests…
CT Scan
CT calcium score is a quick, non-contrast CT scan that measures calcium buildup in the walls of your coronary arteries. No injection is needed for this one, which sets it apart from a contrast-based heart CT. The scan produces a number called the Agatston score: a higher score means more calcified plaque and a higher estimated risk of coronary artery disease. Doctors use this score, along with other risk factors like age, cholesterol, and blood pressure, to decide whether medication or further testing is needed. It does not show soft, non-calcified plaque, and it does not diagnose a blockage directly.
The scan gives you a single number, the Agatston calcium score, based on how much calcium is in your coronary artery walls. A score of zero suggests a low risk. Higher scores point to more plaque and prompt your doctor to look more closely at your heart disease risk.
A calcium score CT looks only at the coronary arteries, the vessels feeding the heart muscle itself, and only at calcium deposits within their walls. It does not use an injected dye, so there is no contrast-related risk with this scan.
Calcium in an artery wall usually means plaque has been there long enough to harden. A radiologist measures the area and density of this calcium and combines them into the Agatston score: - 0: no calcium found - 1 to 10: minimal - 11 to 100: mild - 101 to 400: moderate - Above 400: extensive
This scan helps estimate your longer-term risk of coronary artery disease, particularly in people without symptoms who have risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of early heart disease. The result helps guide decisions about medication such as statins.
A calcium score does not detect soft plaque that has not yet calcified, and a low score does not rule out heart disease completely. It also does not replace a scan that directly checks for narrowed arteries. As with any CT scan, it involves a small dose of radiation, so let the centre know if you are or might be pregnant.
No. A calcium score CT does not use an injected contrast dye. The scan works by detecting calcium directly, so no needle or injection is involved.
A higher Agatston score means more calcified plaque is present in your coronary arteries. Your doctor will look at this alongside your other risk factors to decide next steps. It does not by itself confirm a blockage.
A low or zero score suggests a lower risk, but it cannot fully rule out heart disease. Soft plaque that has not calcified will not show up on this scan. Your doctor may still recommend other tests if you have symptoms.
A calcium score scan measures only calcium buildup and needs no contrast dye. A coronary angiogram uses contrast to show whether the artery itself is narrowed. Your doctor may order either one depending on your symptoms and risk profile.
This page is general information about the test, not medical advice. Your own report's reference ranges apply — please discuss your results with your doctor.
It's often used for people without symptoms who have risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or a family history of early heart disease. Ask your doctor if it applies to your situation.
It is one of the quicker CT scans, since there's no contrast injection involved. Ask the centre for an estimated appointment time when you book.
Preparation needs, if any, vary by patient. Ask your doctor or the centre for instructions specific to your scan.