QRISK 3® and ASCVD Risk Calculator in Patients with Diabetes and Their Correlation with Coronary Artery Calcium Scores.

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is an independent risk factor for asymptomatic cardiovascular disease (CVD). The QRISK 3^® score and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk scores determine the risk of developing CVD over 10 years. The CT coronary artery calcium score (CACS) is a non-invasive imaging modality that identifies sub-clinical atherosclerosis. We studied the correlation between the QRISK 3^® and ASCVD scores and the CACS and determined the cut-off for QRISK 3^® and ASCVD scores that corresponded to a moderate or accentuated CACS (≥100).

Methods: In this prospective study, outpatients with diabetes and no prior coronary artery disease (CAD) or their equivalents, or having symptoms suggestive of angina or heart failure, had their QRISK 3^® and ASCVD scores calculated. They subsequently underwent 256 slice cardiac CT, and CACS was calculated by the Agatston method.

Results: A statistically significant correlation (r = 0.28) was found between QRISK 3^® and ASCVD with CACS (P = 0.004 and P = 0.007, respectively). A QRISK^® score >23 and ASCVD score >10 predicted a CACS score >100 with sensitivities of 85% and 90%, respectively.

Conclusion: The QRISK 3^® and ASCVD scores can be used to triage patients who require further evaluation with CACS to determine the risk of future CVD.