New research reveals that coronary artery calcium (CAC) levels may predict the severity of COVID-19 outcomes. Conducted by a team from Italian hospitals, the study analyzed 195 patients, comparing those who died or required invasive ventilation with those who survived without mechanical assistance.
The findings indicate a significant correlation between high CAC levels and severe COVID-19 outcomes, suggesting that CAC could serve as an important indicator in clinical settings. Patients with moderate-to-severe CAC were found to be at a higher risk of severe illness, with 41.5% of those who died or needed ventilation falling into this category.
Coronary artery calcium is associated with atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart disease. Given that COVID-19 can also impact the cardiovascular system, understanding CAC levels may help physicians identify patients at greater risk for complications.
This study underscores the importance of measuring CAC in COVID-19 patients, particularly those with pre-existing heart conditions. By doing so, healthcare providers can make better-informed decisions regarding patient care, potentially improving outcomes for those most at risk.
The implications of this research are significant, as it highlights a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, integrating insights from cardiology, radiology, and respiratory medicine. The findings were published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease.