J Lipid Atheroscler.  2017 Jun;6(1):15-21. 10.12997/jla.2017.6.1.15.

Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approach of Carotid and Cerebrovascular Plaque on the Basis of Vessel Imaging

• Lee DH
• Park JH

• KMID: 2385840
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.12997/jla.2017.6.1.15

Abstract

Atherosclerosis, characterized by chronic systemic inflammation with plaque formation, is one of the major causes of cerebrovascular disease. Recent advances in imaging technologies can help further understand the overall process and biology of plaque formation and rupture. Thus, these imaging techniques could aid clinicians to make better decision for risk stratification, therapeutic planning, and prediction of future cerebrovascular event. Ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography are the rapidly-evolving imaging modalities dealing with assessment of atherosclerotic plaque. By advances in imaging technology for evaluating plaque, we can characterize the vulnerability of plaque in-vivo, understand the composition and activity of plaque, assess therapeutic response to treatment, and ultimately predict the overall risk of future cerebrovascular episodes. In this review, we will introduce current understanding of various advanced imaging modalities and clinical application of these imaging technologies.

Keyword

Atherosclerosis; Plaque; Imaging; Carotid artery disease; Cerebrovascular disease

MeSH Terms

Atherosclerosis
Biology
Carotid Artery Diseases
Cerebrovascular Disorders
Inflammation
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Plaque, Atherosclerotic
Positron-Emission Tomography
Rupture
Ultrasonography

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