Article Commentary: “Sex Differences in Plaque Composition and Morphology Among Symptomatic Patients With Mild-To-Moderate Carotid Artery Stenosis”
Mona Al Banna, MB BCh, Msc(Res)
@DrMonaAlBanna
Data regarding outcome differences in carotid revascularization between males and females has been mixed. The authors of this study set out to explore whether carotid plaque composition and morphology differed between male and female stroke patients using an imaging-based approach whilst taking into account degree of plaque burden. The plaque characteristics that were evaluated included intra-plaque hemorrhage, lipid rich necrotic core, calcifications, thin or ruptured fibrous cap, plaque ulcerations and total plaque volume. The authors also explored combinations of plaque characteristics to evaluate the relationship between multiple vulnerable plaque phenotypes. Plaque characteristics were assessed with CTA and dedicated vessel wall MRI.