A carotid intima-media thickness test (CIMT), also known as a carotid artery IMT ultrasound scan, uses ultrasound to measure the thickness of the intima and media, the two inner layers of the carotid artery.
These measurements can help physicians assess the health of the carotid arteries and the risk of cardiovascular disease-related events like heart attacks and strokes, even in asymptomatic patients. Risk factors for increased carotid intima-media thickness include:
aging
high cholesterol
high blood pressure
smoking
diabetes
obesity
an inactive lifestyle
