What does CACS mean in LABORATORY

Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) is a type of imaging test used to measure the amount of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. It can help physicians assess an individual's risk for developing coronary artery disease.

CACS measures the amount of calcified plaque found in the coronary arteries, which helps provide information about an individual's risk for heart disease.

Although it is generally recommended that individuals at moderate or high risk for heart disease be tested, some patients who do not fit that profile may also benefit from testing if their doctor recommends it based on their medical history and physical exam.

Results are typically available within 1-2 days and are expressed as a calcium score, which reflects how much calcified plaque is present in the arteries.

As with all medical tests, there are some risks associated with having a CACS test including radiation exposure and potential allergic reactions to contrast agents used during scanning. However, these risks are generally considered small when compared to the potential benefits associated with accurately assessing one's cardiovascular risk factors through this type of imaging test.