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Carotid Intima-Media Thickness Test (CIMT)

Early detection may indicate the need for a more aggressive approach to managing the risk factors associated with heart disease and stroke. Aging is a contributing factor to increased carotid intima‑media thickness (CIMT). Other risk factors include high lipoprotein levels, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. The CIMT test plays a pivotal role in diagnosing the extent of carotid atherosclerotic vascular disease, enabling timely intervention. Trust us for a comprehensive cardiovascular health approach.

Starting Your Care Journey

What is Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT) Test?

The carotid intima‑media thickness test (CIMT) is a measure used to diagnose the extent of carotid atherosclerotic vascular disease. The test measures the thickness of the inner two layers of the carotid artery—the intima and media—and alerts physicians to any thickening when patients are still asymptomatic.

Physicians use CIMT testing to determine the "age" of the carotid arteries. Knowing that patients may not be experiencing the symptoms of atherosclerosis, there still may be subtle changes in artery thickness. Armed with this information, physicians may develop an aggressive medical approach by prescribing medications such blood pressure and cholesterol lowering agents and aspirin, and patients may be encouraged make lifestyle and dietary improvements.

We recommend a carotid artery intima-media thickness (CIMT) test for men 45 and older and women 55 and older if they have one or more of the risk factors. People with multiple risk factors should talk with their doctor about having a scan even sooner.

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Heart Attack Screening

The Preventive Imaging Center focuses on the prevention of a first heart attack, especially in vulnerable populations at risk of a future heart attack. We offer early heart disease screenings, including coronary calcium scans (CCS) and carotid artery intima‑media thickness tests (CIMT). These noninvasive tests help assess your heart attack risk and give you the opportunity to make lifestyle adjustments to lower your risk of a heart attack.

Best in California and #6 in the U.S. for Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery

The Smidt Heart Institute is proud to be the best in California, #6 in the U.S. and consistently ranked among the top heart programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.

Heart Disease Prevention News From Cedars-Sinai

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Leading the Way in Heart Disease Research

Cedars‑Sinai researchers are always investigating new technologies and techniques for diagnosing and treating heart disease. Our research helps us find heart disease earlier and treat it more effectively.

Cardiac Arrest Prevention Research

The Center for Cardiac Arrest Prevention (CCAP) discovers novel clinical tools to predict and prevent heart attacks. This research helps the center identify patients who would benefit from screening and treatment.

Heart Disease Clinical Trials

Cedars‑Sinai’s specialists are leading the way in innovative treatments and procedures to prevent heart attacks. Examining the safety and efficacy of certain drugs can prevent a heart attack in at-risk individuals.

Get Help Today

Call the General Cardiology care team directly at 310‑423-2726,
Monday‑Friday, 8 am-5 pm PT.

You can also have us call you back at your convenience.