Coronary Calcium Score Order Consultation
A coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan is a non-contrast CT that quantifies calcified plaque in the coronary arteries. Most facilities require a provider order. Our $40 virtual review provides risk-based assessment to determine if an order is medically appropriate for your situation.
Start Virtual Consult — $40Orders issued only when medically appropriate. CAC is not recommended for everyone. Not affiliated with any imaging center.
Chest pain requires ER evaluation. CAC scoring is for asymptomatic patients only. If you have chest pain, shortness of breath, arm pain, or other cardiac symptoms — call 911 immediately.
Understanding the CAC Score
The Agatston score is the standard measurement for coronary artery calcium burden:
| CAC Score | Plaque Burden | General Risk Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | No calcium detected | Low short-term cardiovascular event risk |
| 1–99 | Mild calcium | Mild plaque — increased cardiovascular risk |
| 100–299 | Moderate calcium | Moderate plaque burden — elevated risk |
| 300+ | Severe calcium | Extensive plaque — high cardiovascular risk |
Score interpretation varies by age, sex, and race. A provider or cardiologist reviews CAC results in the context of the patient's full cardiovascular risk profile.
What the Provider Reviews
Age and sex (typical candidates: 40–75)
10-year ASCVD risk score (typically intermediate 7.5–20%)
Family history of premature cardiovascular disease
Cholesterol and lipid panel history
Smoking history (current or former)
Hypertension and diabetes history
Prior cardiac evaluations or imaging
Current medications (statins, aspirin, etc.)
Important Clinical Context
CAC scoring is not appropriate for all patients. It is generally not recommended for: patients with known cardiovascular disease (CAD), patients already on statins where results won't change management, very low-risk patients (10-year risk <5%), or very high-risk patients (10-year risk >20%). Provider review determines individual appropriateness.
Frequently Asked Questions
CAC Score vs. CCTA: What's the Difference?
A coronary calcium score (CAC) and coronary CT angiography (CCTA) are both cardiac CT studies, but they serve different purposes. CAC is a non-contrast scan that quantifies calcified plaque only. CCTA uses IV contrast to show both calcified and non-calcified plaque and coronary anatomy. They are not interchangeable.
CAC is often a first-line screening tool for asymptomatic intermediate-risk patients. CCTA provides more detailed anatomical information and may be appropriate when more information is needed beyond what a calcium score can tell you.
Request a CAC Score Provider Review
$40 virtual consultation. Non-contrast study. Risk-based review. Not affiliated with any imaging center.
Start Virtual Consult — $40Orders issued only when medically appropriate. CAC scoring is not universally recommended. Not emergency care.