Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I am a 37-year-old male, and around two years ago, I had some cardiac testing when I was 35. The only results of note were a calcium score of 6 (CT coronary angiogram) and mildly dilated LA (biplane volume of 35ml/m2). Please help.
Thank you.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I understand your query and concern.
A CAC (coronary artery calcium) score of 6 is normal and nothing to worry about. LA (left atrial) volume index is on the upper limit. Please share your ECG (electrocardiography) and echocardiography. Also, tell me your symptoms so that I can guide you accordingly. LDL (low-density lipoprotein) less than 100 mg/dL is optimal, and HDL (high-density lipoprotein) more than 40 mg/dL is normal. Please check your lipid profile and share it with me.
I hope this helps.
Please revert so I can assist you further.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you for your reply.
I will also attach my ECHO and CTCA now. I had a recent echocardiogram done, and my LA size is stable. I have trace mitral valve regurgitation, which I am told I should not worry about. My question is, my doctor has said no further tests are required and does not seem concerned about the calcium score. He has made a file note for five years time to look at re-testing in five to ten years (which will be 7 to 12 years after the original CTCA. What are your thoughts on my score, the timeframe in between tests, and my risk factors?
My lifestyle has changed in the last two years. When I first got tested, I was 268 lbs, and now 216 lbs. I exercise six to seven times a week at high intensity. I now do triathlons and Ironman events. Prior to this, I was sedentary. I also eat better, though still not perfect by any means. I have never smoked, but I also drink very rarely. Can you provide a detailed answer to my questions and your thoughts on my calcium score and risk?
Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I understand your query.
I have reviewed the reports (attachments are hidden to protect the patient's identity). Coronary artery calcium score is 6, which is a low score. 0 to 99 is a low score. Echocardiography is normal. Heart rate is also normal. Blood pressure is normal, too. LA volume index is on the upper limit with mild MR (mitral regurgitation). No need to worry. Repeat ECHO (echocardiogram) after three to five years of first should be done. To reduce the risk of coronary artery disease, I suggest the following:
1. Continue exercise.
2. Reduce weight to a healthy BMI (body mass index) range (18.5 to 24.9, and 18.5 to 22.9 for Asians).
3. Waist circumference should be less than 102 cm (less than 90 cm for Asians).
4. Have a fasting lipid profile done.
5. Have HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) levels done.
6. Eat a healthy diet, such as a Mediterranean diet.
7. Avoid smoking and alcohol.
8. Do you have diabetes? Is there any family history of cardiac issues?
I hope this helps.
Please revert so I can assist you further.
Thank you.
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Answered byDr. Muhammad Zohaib Siddiq
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
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