Higher precontrast CT density of the carotid plaque in the symptomatic patients

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine if there is a significant difference in the CT Hounsfield Unit (CTHU) of the carotid atherosclerotic plaque (CAP) on CTpre and CTartery depending on the presence of symptomatology.

Methods

Quantitative analysis of the CTHUs for the CAP was performed in 43 arteries (11 symptomatic arteries, 32 asymptomatic arteries). The CTHUs were measured using the manual ROI method for each CAP. Group differences in the CTHU of the CAP depending on the symptomatology were evaluated by using the independent t-test.

Results

The CTHUs of CAP on CTpre were significantly higher in the symptomatic arteries than those of the asymptomatic arteries (P = 0.036). The CTHUs of CAP on CTartery were not significantly different regardless of symptomatology.

Conclusion

The CTHUs of the CAP on CT_pre may be used as one of the biomarkers to distinguish the vulnerable CAP.