coronary calcium scan is a specialized X-ray test that provides images of the arterial system in the heart. From there, doctors can detect and measure calcium-containing plaques in the arteries that limit blood flow to the heart muscles. By measuring calcified plaques on a coronary calcium scan, coronary artery disease can be detected before symptoms occur.

Coronary calcium scanning is a noninvasive diagnostic method that detects calcification in the coronary artery wall, thereby helping to predict the risk of death in patients with asymptomatic coronary artery disease within 15 years.