How accurate is CIMT test?

How accurate is CIMT test?

CIMT measurements by ultrasound may be used for the assessment of AS and risk to develop CAD. Current findings indicate 78% sensitivity and 75% specificity, which shows that it is able to correctly diagnose the disease with accuracy.

What is a CIMT carotid ultrasound?

The carotid intima-media thickness test (CIMT) is a measure used to diagnose the extent of carotid atherosclerotic vascular disease. The test measures the thickness of the inner two layers of the carotid artery—the intima and media—and alerts physicians to any thickening when patients are still asymptomatic.

How do you read Cimt results?

Based on some large population studies, normal CIMT values were defined. CIMT above the 75th percentile of average for the age, gender and ethnicity or absolute thickness more than 1.0 mm are considered an abnormal result, and people with IMT in less than the 50th percentile are classified in the low risk group.

What is the prep for a carotid ultrasound?

Getting ready for your carotid ultrasound This test doesn’t require much preparation. However, you may be asked not to smoke or drink caffeine for at least 2 hours before the test. Smoking and caffeine use can shrink your blood vessels and affect the accuracy of the test.

How much does a CIMT test cost?

It costs about $250 to $300, and many insurer providers don’t cover it. The clinical significance of the test needs more evaluation. It may promote excess testing. Not all cardiologists are well-trained in interpreting the results of the test.

Who should get a CIMT test?

CIMT testing is most appropriate for individuals between 40 and 70 years old, especially in those with a history of smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or family history of heart disease.

How long does a CIMT test take?

A CIMT examination is usually completed in approximately 30 to 45 minutes. The test generates a CIMT measurement and a report identifying your risk profile.

What is normal carotid IMT?

In healthy adults, IMT ranges from 0.25 to 1.5 mm,24 and values >1.0 mm are often regarded as abnormal.

How long does it take to do a carotid artery ultrasound?

The radiologist may use a Doppler ultrasound, which shows blood flowing through the arteries. In a Doppler ultrasound, the rate of blood flow is translated into a graph. A carotid ultrasound usually takes about 30 minutes.

Is CIMT covered by insurance?

CIMT is a useful test for determining your level of atherosclerosis if you have some risk factors but no symptoms. Your doctors can use the results to help you prevent further damage to your arteries or heart. CIMT is a new test and not covered by many insurers.

Is carotid ultrasound the same as Cimt?

A carotid intima-media thickness test (CIMT), also known as a carotid artery IMT ultrasound scan, uses ultrasound to measure the thickness of the intima and media, the two inner layers of the carotid artery.

What is IMT value?

The average IMT value is calculated for each common carotid artery and >1 mm is taken as abnormal 4. The CCA-IMT has a linear relationship with systemic atherosclerosis burden 1,2. It predicts the risk of developing future cerebrovascular or cardiac thrombotic and can be used as a screening tool 2.

How do you read carotid ultrasound results?

The results will tell your doctor how open or narrowed your carotid arteries are. For example, the arteries may be 10% narrowed, 50% narrowed, or 75% narrowed. A normal result means there is no problem with the blood flow in the carotid arteries.