The non-zero-calcification-risk multi-ethnic study of atherosclerosis score correlates with extent of coronary calcification as well as coronary artery disease.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical feasibility of using the non-zero-calcification-risk Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (nzcr-MESA) score, a simplified risk calculator that includes only age, sex, and ethnicity, for predicting the extent of coronary artery calcification (CAC) as measured by computed tomography (CT).

METHODS: In this retrospective study, 241 Caucasian patients underwent coronary CT angiography (CCTA) for the assessment of coronary artery disease. The objective extent of coronary calcification was quantified using Agatston scores. The nzcr-MESA score was calculated based on patient demographics and compared to the extent of calcification. Statistical analysis involved Spearman correlation coefficients and regression models to determine the relationship between nzcr-MESA and CAC. Significance was set at P < 0.05.

RESULTS: A positive correlation was found between nzcr-MESA scores and the degree of CAC (P < 0.0001, females R = 0.56, males R = 0.39) as well as to disease severity according to the coronary artery disease-reporting and data system (CAD-RADS) scores (P < 0.0001, females R = 0.45, males R = 0.42), suggesting that the simplified score is a predictor of calcification and coronary disease. The optimal nzcr-MESA cutoff values for preselecting patients with severe coronary artery calcification (Agatston Score ≥ 400) were 90 % for females and 95 % for males.

CONCLUSION: The nzcr-MESA score offers a clinically feasible, simplified method for estimating CAC extent, with significant implications for CT coronary imaging. Given its ease of use and its capability to correctly predict severe CAC, nzcr-MESA can be useful to preselect suitable diagnostic protocols. Integrating nzcr-MESA into clinical routine may help to streamline diagnostic workflows.