Incidental detection of carotid artery calcification on CBCT: A retrospective analysis of 890 scans (108 cases).

Background

Carotid artery calcifications (CACs) are markers of atherosclerosis and an increased risk of stroke. Therefore, their incidental detection on dental cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans can be clinically relevant. Early detection allows timely intervention, potentially reducing the risk of serious cerebral and cardiovascular complications.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to retrospectively analyze the prevalence and severity of CACs on CBCT images and their association with patient characteristics and various risk factors. MATERIAL AND

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated 890 CBCT examinations. Of these, 108 patients exhibiting sclerotic changes in the internal carotid artery (ICA) were included and classified as mild, moderate or severe based on the severity of calcification. The study excluded individuals younger than 50 years, as well as cases in which similar radiopacities could not be clearly differentiated. The associations between various clinical variables, including lipid profile parameters, smoking status, a history of chronic diseases, and the severity of calcifications were statistically analyzed.

Results

A total of 108 patients were categorized based on the severity of calcification as mild (n = 53), moderate (n = 41) or severe (n = 14). The findings indicated significant associations between CAC severity and age (p < 0.001), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels (p < 0.001), triglyceride levels (TAG) (p = 0.002), and hypertension (p = 0.027). Low-density lipoprotein levels demonstrated the strongest correlation with the severity of stenosis (p = 0.102).

Conclusions

Cone beam computed tomography may incidentally reveal CACs, highlighting the potential need for further medical evaluation. Larger studies are required to confirm the clinical significance of these findings.