Coronary Calcium Scan
Risks
The chance of a coronary calcium scan causing a problem is small.
- There is a slight chance of developing cancer from having a coronary calcium scan. The chance is higher in people who have many radiation tests. If you are concerned about this risk, talk to your doctor about the amount of radiation this test may give you and confirm that the test is needed.
- You could get a high score from the test even if your arteries are not blocked. This could lead to extra tests that you don't need. Or it could cause you to worry when there's no reason. But these kinds of results are most likely to happen in people who are at low risk for heart disease. So if you already know that you're at low risk, you shouldn't get this test.
- Not all blocked arteries have calcium. A low test score may make you feel safe even though you're still at risk.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference September 21, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference George Philippides, MD - Cardiology |
|
© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
