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Carotid Plaque-RADS: A Novel Stroke Risk Classification System.

Authors :
Saba L
Cau R
Murgia A
Nicolaides AN
Wintermark M
Castillo M
Staub D
Kakkos SK
Yang Q
Paraskevas KI
Yuan C
Edjlali M
Sanfilippo R
Hendrikse J
Johansson E
Mossa-Basha M
Balu N
Dichgans M
Saloner D
Bos D
Jager HR
Naylor R
Faa G
Suri JS
Costello J
Auer DP
Mcnally JS
Bonati LH
Nardi V
van der Lugt A
Griffin M
Wasserman BA
Kooi ME
Gillard J
Lanzino G
Mikhailidis DP
Mandell DM
Benson JC
van Dam-Nolen DHK
Kopczak A
Song JW
Gupta A
DeMarco JK
Chaturvedi S
Virmani R
Hatsukami TS
Brown M
Moody AR
Libby P
Schindler A
Saam T
Source :
JACC. Cardiovascular imaging [JACC Cardiovasc Imaging] 2024 Jan; Vol. 17 (1), pp. 62-75. Date of Electronic Publication: 2023 Oct 11.
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Background: Carotid artery atherosclerosis is highly prevalent in the general population and is a well-established risk factor for acute ischemic stroke. Although the morphological characteristics of vulnerable plaques are well recognized, there is a lack of consensus in reporting and interpreting carotid plaque features.<br />Objectives: The aim of this paper is to establish a consistent and comprehensive approach for imaging and reporting carotid plaque by introducing the Plaque-RADS (Reporting and Data System) score.<br />Methods: A panel of experts recognized the necessity to develop a classification system for carotid plaque and its defining characteristics. Using a multimodality analysis approach, the Plaque-RADS categories were established through consensus, drawing on existing published reports.<br />Results: The authors present a universal classification that is applicable to both researchers and clinicians. The Plaque-RADS score offers a morphological assessment in addition to the prevailing quantitative parameter of "stenosis." The Plaque-RADS score spans from grade 1 (indicating complete absence of plaque) to grade 4 (representing complicated plaque). Accompanying visual examples are included to facilitate a clear understanding of the Plaque-RADS categories.<br />Conclusions: Plaque-RADS is a standardized and reliable system of reporting carotid plaque composition and morphology via different imaging modalities, such as ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. This scoring system has the potential to help in the precise identification of patients who may benefit from exclusive medical intervention and those who require alternative treatments, thereby enhancing patient care. A standardized lexicon and structured reporting promise to enhance communication between radiologists, referring clinicians, and scientists.<br />Competing Interests: Funding Support and Author Disclosures The views expressed in this paper are those of the authors and do not reflect the official policy of the Department of Army/Navy/Air Force, Department of Defense, or U.S. Government. The identification of specific products or scientific instrumentation does not constitute endorsement or implied endorsement on the part of the author, Department of Defense, or any component agency. The authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the contents of this paper to disclose.<br /> (Copyright © 2024 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1876-7591
Volume :
17
Issue :
1
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
JACC. Cardiovascular imaging
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
37823860
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcmg.2023.09.005