Results

The result of the test is usually given as a number called an Agatston score. The score reflects the total area of calcium deposits and the density of the calcium.

• A score of zero means no calcium is seen in the heart. It suggests a low chance of developing a heart attack in the future.
• When calcium is present, the higher the score, the higher your risk of heart disease.
• A score of 100 to 300 means moderate plaque deposits. It's associated with a relatively high risk of a heart attack or other heart disease over the next three to five years.
• A score greater than 300 is a sign of very high to severe disease and heart attack risk.

You also may receive a percentile score, which indicates your amount of calcium compared to people of the same age and sex.

The result of a heart scan shouldn't be used as a single predictor of your overall health and risk of heart disease. The information from a heart scan should be combined with other health information.

Discussing results with your doctor

Your doctor will discuss the results of the heart scan with you. Depending on the outcome, one or more of the following strategies may be needed:

• No change to current treatment plan
• Different medication or dose of medication
• Changes to your diet and exercise routine
• New weight-loss goals
• Additional tests
• Follow-up appointments to monitor your health and treatment plan