Caristo Diagnostics is a company at the forefront of predicting cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. Their mission involves leveraging advanced artificial intelligence to transform the early detection of these conditions. This innovative approach aims to identify individuals at risk far sooner than traditional methods allow.
Understanding CaRi-Heart Technology
CaRi-Heart is an AI-powered solution designed to analyze routine coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) scans. This technology examines the perivascular fat surrounding the coronary arteries, focusing on a measurement called the fat attenuation index (FAI). The FAI score is a validated biomarker that quantifies coronary inflammation.
CaRi-Heart’s AI algorithms interpret perivascular fat data to quantify coronary inflammation, characterize plaque, and generate an individualized risk score for future cardiac events. This non-invasive technology uses existing CT scan data, predicting risk even in patients without traditional obstructive coronary artery disease. The cloud-based platform analyzes new and archived images from most scanner models, providing actionable reports.
The Role of Coronary Inflammation
Coronary inflammation is a biological process that plays an often unseen role in the development of cardiovascular events. It is an ongoing inflammatory response within the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle. This inflammation contributes to the formation and destabilization of atherosclerotic plaques, which are fatty deposits that build up in artery walls.
When inflammation is present, it can make these plaques more vulnerable to rupture. A ruptured plaque can lead to blood clots, blocking blood flow to the heart, causing a heart attack, or to the brain, resulting in a stroke. While traditional CT scans show plaque buildup and narrowing, they do not identify this underlying inflammation. Detecting and quantifying this inflammation provides a deeper understanding of an individual’s cardiovascular risk, moving beyond relying solely on plaque assessment.
Transforming Cardiovascular Risk Assessment
Caristo’s technology offers a shift in how cardiovascular risk is assessed and managed. By detecting coronary inflammation, CaRi-Heart can predict cardiac events up to 10 years in advance, even in individuals considered low risk by conventional methods. This early and accurate prediction allows for proactive interventions and lifestyle modifications.
The technology identifies “hidden” at-risk individuals who may not have obstructive coronary artery disease, allowing preventative measures to be initiated sooner. This includes personalized treatment plans, such as medication adjustments or lifestyle changes, which can reduce the incidence of heart attacks and strokes. This approach transforms cardiovascular care from a reactive model, where treatment begins after symptoms appear, to a proactive one focused on early detection and prevention.