Coronary Calcium Scan

Coronary calcium scans use a special X-ray test called Reference computed tomography (CT) Opens New Window to check for the buildup of Reference calcium Opens New Window in Reference plaque Opens New Window on the walls of the arteries of the heart (Reference coronary arteries Opens New Window). This test is used to check for Reference heart disease Opens New Window in an early stage and to determine how severe it is. Coronary calcium scans are also called cardiac calcium scoring.

The coronary arteries supply blood to the heart. Normally, the coronary arteries do not contain calcium. Calcium in the coronary arteries is a sign of Reference coronary artery disease (CAD) Opens New Window.

A CT scan takes pictures of the heart in thin sections. The pictures are recorded in a computer and can be saved for more study or printed out as photographs.

For help deciding about getting this test, see:

Opens New Window Heart Disease Risk: Should I Have a Coronary Calcium Scan? Opens New Window

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