Updated
Why it was ordered
A clinician may recommend a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan when its result could help decide how to manage future cardiovascular risk, including an uncertain cholesterol-treatment decision. It is not a universal screening test for everyone.
Before and during the scan
A CAC scan uses CT and usually does not require IV contrast. Follow the imaging center's preparation instructions, and tell them if you may be pregnant. Ask about cost and insurance coverage in advance.
What your score means
A score of zero means no calcified plaque was detected. A positive score means calcified plaque is present; a higher score generally indicates more plaque and greater risk. Your age, other risk factors and sometimes the percentile help put it in context.
A zero score does not exclude noncalcified plaque or guarantee that symptoms are harmless. A positive score is not the percentage of blockage in an artery.
What happens next
Review the score alongside your cholesterol, BP, family history and other conditions. Agree on treatment goals and follow-up. Do not start aspirin, stop a statin or schedule repeat scans based only on the number.
Read the full calcium-score guide for prevention decisions and limitations. New severe chest symptoms need emergency assessment, not a screening scan.
Questions for your next visit
- Would this scan change my treatment?
- What does the result mean for my personal risk?
- What is our prevention and follow-up plan?
References and further reading
- ACR/RSNA RadiologyInfo: Cardiac CT for Calcium Scoring
- ACC/AHA: 2026 Guideline on the Management of Dyslipidemia
- ACC: Aspirin for primary prevention and bleeding risk (2022)
Use these sources with your own clinician's advice. Recommendations depend on your health history and can change as evidence develops.