Introduction
The simple assessment of atherosclerotic risk factors is not an accurate tool to predict the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in adults without past history of atherosclerotic disease. Preclinical atherosclerotic increases the global cardiovascular risk and should be evaluated for a better risk stratification. Intima-media thickness (IMT), reduced ankle-brachial pressure index (ABI) and impaired flow mediated dilatation (FMD) are independent markers of multifocal but subclinical atherosclerosis and result associated with an increased rate of cardiovascular events. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) may be a useful non-invasive technique to detect silent coronary disease (CAD) in patients with peripheral preclinical atherosclerosis. This ebook outlines “preclinical athersclerosis” and its markers in clinical practice. The ebook gives simple but clear information for a better stratification of global cardiovascular risk. The text serves as an important guide for medical professionals involved in the management of cardiovascular patients.
