Bone Densitometry Predicts AAC
The Journal of Bone and Mineral Research included an article describing the utility of using bone densitometer imaging for Caucasian women who are post-menopausal to predict abdominal aortic calicification (AAC).
The new research suggests that these bone scans can detect the presence of factors which may indicate the presence of cardiovascular disease. This cost-effective screening modality may provide an excellent opportunity to evaluate women for this disease, which still remains the number one cause of mortality.
A randomized trial was completed in a series of women over age 75, who were treated with either placebo and clodronate. The primary endpoint was cardiovascular events, particularly heart attack and stroke. Within that trial, an additional study was completed to assess findings obtained with bone density imaging. 408 women from the original study were compared to the same number of control patients.
Single-energy vertebral fracture assessment (VFA) was completed. Lateral spine images were examined and, including measurement of abdominal aortic calcification. AAC had an equivalent rate of predictability for the risk of cardiovascular disease as the widely used Framingham Point score. The Framingham scale combines risk factors such as cholesterol and blood pressure to predict risk of cardiovascular disease within the next ten years. Moreover, the predictive ability of AAC was independent of factors used in the score along with other data points collected in the study.
Bone densitometry is traditionally completed in women over age 65 already. There may be an additional use for this test besides evaluation of bone density, without adding additional costs.
October 30, 2007 Related topics: Imaging, Diagnostic, Radiology, Cardiology