Abstract 12241: Correlation of Breast and Coronary Artery Calcification and Associated Cardiovascular Risks

Abstract

Introduction: There is a known association between microvascular breast artery calcifications (BAC) and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Similarly, coronary artery calcification (CAC) has been shown to have association with 10-year ASCVD risk. Using an investigational artificial intelligence software, we sought to determine if a relationship exists between BAC and CAC severity on CT imaging obtained for non-cardiac reasons and whether this relationship has prognostic implications for major adverse cardiac events (MACE). Methods: A single center retrospective pilot study of patients who underwent CT chest imaging for non-cardiac issues and had also undergone a routine screening mammogram within one year. A database created by our central imaging archives for patients with known CAC and BAC was utilized. CAC severity was scored using the semi-quantitative Weston method. BAC severity (termed Bradley score) was scored by cmAngio R , an automated software created by CureMetrix. Results: Seventy-three patients were included for BAC analysis during a median follow-up of 85 months. A mean Bradley score by cmAngio of 10.40 was significantly associated with low risk of CAC (0-2 Weston). A mean Bradley score for moderate (3-7 Weston) and high (> 7 Weston) risk of CAC was 19.70 and 42.64, respectively. The results were statistically significant (p=0.0222). A CAC total score ≥5 was previously published by us to be the optimal cutoff value for predicting MACEs. Conclusions: This retrospective pilot study confirms a relationship exists between patients found to have BAC as identified by an investigational artificial intelligence software on routine mammogram and CAC on CT imaging obtained for non-cardiac reasons. The addition of routine disclosure of BAC on mammographic reports may be of clinical value to capture patients who may not meet traditional guidelines for coronary atherosclerosis risk stratification and may help primary care clinicians begin discussions about lifestyle modifications and potential treatment directed towards primary prevention of MACE.