Differentiation of Atherosclerotic Carotid Plaque Components With Dual-Energy Computed Tomography

Mueez Aizaz, Juul Bierens, Marion J. Gijbels, Tobien H.C.M.L. Schreuder, N.P. van Orshoven, J. H. C. Daemen, Werner H. Mess, Thomas Flohr, Robert J. van Oostenbrugge, Alida A. Postma, M. Eline Kooi

We determined ρ eff -Z eff ranges for plaque assessment. ρ eff -Z eff -based volumes showed strong-to-very strong correlations with MRI for LRNC, fibrous tissue, and calcifications and a weak correlation for IPH. ρ eff -Z eff -based volumes demonstrated superior agreement with MRI for all plaque components compared with HU-based volumes, highlighting the potential of DECT for the identification of patients with vulnerable plaques.