This study demonstrates that, in the case of diagnostic image quality, contrast-enhanced MDCT permits an accurate identification of coronary plaques and that computed tomography density values measured within plaques reflect echogenity and plaque composition.

The relation of heart rate and image quality in the depiction of coronary arteries, heart valves and myocardium was assessed on a dual-source computed tomography system (DSCT). Coronary CT angiography was performed on a DSCT (Somatom Definition, Siemens) with high concentration contrast media (Iopromide, Ultravist 370, Schering) in 24 patients with heart rates between 44 and 92 beats per minute. Images were reconstructed over the whole cardiac cycle in 10% steps. Two readers independently assessed the image quality with regard to the diagnostic evaluation of right and left coronary artery, heart valves and left ventricular myocardium for the assessment of vessel wall changes, coronary stenoses, valve morphology and function and ventricular function on a three point grading scale. The image quality ratings at the optimal reconstruction interval were 1.24+/-0.42 for the right and 1.09+/-0.27 for the left coronary artery. A reconstruction of diagnostic systolic and diastolic images is possible for a wide range of heart rates, allowing also a functional evaluation of valves and myocardium. Dual-source CT offers very robust diagnostic image quality in a wide range of heart rates. The high temporal resolution now also makes a functional evaluation of the heart valves and myocardium possible.

Abstract-Infiltration of monocytes into the arterial wall is an early cellular event in atherogenesis. Recent evidence shows that C-reactive protein (CRP) is deposited in the arterial intima at sites of atherogenesis. In this study, we demonstrate that CRP deposition precedes the appearance of monocytes in early atherosclerotic lesions. CRP is chemotactic for freshly isolated human blood monocytes. A specific CRP receptor is demonstrated on monocytes in vitro as well as in vivo, and blockage of the receptor by use of a monoclonal anti-receptor antibody completely abolishes CRP-induced chemotaxis. CRP may play a major role in the recruitment of monocytes during atherogenesis. (Arterioscler Thromb Vasc