Coronary plaque characterization using CT.

OBJECTIVE. In this article, we review the histopathologic classification of coronary atherosclerotic plaques and describe the possibilities and limitations of CT regarding the evaluation of coronary artery plaques. CONCLUSION. The composition of atherosclerotic plaques in the coronary arteries displays substantial variability and is associated with the likelihood for rupture and downstream ischemic events. Accurate identification and quantification of coronary plaque components on CT is challenging because of the limited temporal, spatial, and contrast resolutions of current scanners. Nonetheless, CT may provide valuable information that has potential for characterization of coronary plaques. For example, the extent of calcification can be determined, lipid-rich lesions can be separated from more fibrous ones, and positive remodeling can be identified.