CT Calcium Scoring Program - Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital

Cardiac calcification occurs when calcium deposits build up in blood vessel walls, heart valves or the pericardium. Of particular concern is calcification in the coronary artery walls, which supply blood to the heart muscle. This results from deterioration of the arteries and can develop many years before symptoms of heart disease appear.

Studies have found that coronary artery calcium levels can help predict the risk of ischemic heart disease, along with established risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high blood lipid levels and smoking. Coronary artery calcification increases the risk of acute myocardial infarction caused by sudden coronary artery blockage.

Who should consider CT calcium scoring?

People aged 45 and above
People who have high LDL cholesterol, have high blood pressure, smoke, are overweight, or have prediabetes
People with a family history of coronary artery disease or ischemic heart disease
People with underlying conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, high blood lipid levels, or high lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels. Lp(a) is a genetically determined form of cholesterol. Elevated levels can increase the risk of coronary artery and cerebrovascular disease, even when LDL cholesterol is normal.
People with a moderate 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease
People who are taking cholesterol-lowering medication but need additional information to determine an appropriate LDL cholesterol target based on their risk
People preparing for a competition who want to increase their training intensity, particularly after a long period without exercise
Middle-aged and older athletes, particularly those who engage in intense exercise and have additional cardiovascular risk factors

According to recommendations from American Diabetes Association (ADA) in the United States, coronary artery calcium testing is considered a useful standard cardiac assessment for people with diabetes, older adults, and people with kidney failure who cannot undergo a standard treadmill exercise test.

Who should not undergo CT calcium scoring?

People who have previously undergone coronary artery stent placement or coronary artery bypass surgery
People who are unable to lie flat or cannot follow instructions
People who weigh more than 180 kilograms
Pregnant women

Preparing for CT calcium scoring

Patients can eat normally. There is no need to avoid drinking water or fast before the examination, unless otherwise instructed by the doctor.
Avoid coffee, tea, energy drinks, and smoking, as these may increase heart rate
Wear loose-fitting clothing
The examination takes only 5-10 minutes. No recovery period is required, and patients can return home or resume their usual activities immediately afterward.

If an abnormality is detected on the CT calcium scoring test

A cardiologist will assess the risk of coronary artery disease together with the patient's medical history and other blood test results to determine whether additional testing is needed. Depending on the severity of the abnormality and any accompanying symptoms, the doctor may recommend:

A detailed examination of the coronary arteries using CT coronary angiogram
Assessment of heart function during exercise with an exercise stress test or stress echocardiogram
An echocardiogram to assess heart contraction
Blood tests to assess lipid levels, blood sugar, and inflammation markers such as hs-CRP

Even if there are no symptoms, more proactive management may be recommended, such as medication to lower cholesterol and prevent the buildup of plaque, along with lifestyle changes including regular exercise, weight management, and stress reduction. Underlying conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure should also be managed, with ongoing monitoring of treatment. In some cases, a repeat CT calcium score may be recommended in 3-5 years.

Program	Promotion Price [THB]	Online Price [THB]
CT Calcium Scoring Program Purchase program: Srinakarin Shop \| Lazada \| Shopee	3,000** ~~10,000~~	2,900**