Management of Asymptomatic Patients With Positive Coronary Artery Calcium Scans

The widespread availability of the coronary artery calcium scan to diagnose coronary artery atheroma semiquantitatively and its prognostic significance has frequently resulted in a difficult therapeutic decision for physicians caring for asymptomatic patients. Of particular concern are patients over 40 years of age and young adults characterized by multiple cardiovascular risk factors. The correct prognostic interpretation of coronary artery calcium scores and the potential benefits and risks of various therapeutic modalities need to be understood. This review describes the therapeutic choices available to endocrinologists and provides recommendations for various treatment options.