A Comparative Study between Carotid Duplex and Carotid MRI for Characterization of Atherosclerotic Plaques

Abstract

he MRI of the carotid was able to differentiate between the fibrous, lipid and hemorrhagic components of the soft plaque detected by ultrasound which is the key point in diagnosing the vulnerable plaques associated with increased risk of cerebrovascular thromboembolism. MRI can detect the lipid core in the plaque composition, especially in patients with neurological deficits which can affect their further management. Advantages of ultrasonography include low cost, lack of radiation and widespread availability. However, studies on the accuracy of ultrasound for identifying plaque composition have been conflicting, and ultrasound cannot reliably distinguish hemorrhage from lipid core. In conclusion, ultrasonography alone is insufficient to diagnose the plaque type accurately in some patients. Employing both carotid US and MRI is useful for accurately evaluating the characteristics of carotid plaque.