An approach to the classification, diagnosis and management of vulnerable plaque

There is a growing interest for the characterization of "vulnerable plaque" so as to be able to identify them and design therapeutic modalities aimed to prevent an acute coronary event. With growing number of CAD population, the cost of an acute coronary event is huge, both in terms of morbidity and mortality and in terms of treatment, hence vulnerable plaque approach seems desirable. Continued work in this field has not only led to the standardization of the nomenclature for better communication, but it has also been possible to identify such lesions both by invasive and non-invasive means, basing upon specific characteristics. Progress have been made in understanding of diagnostic criteria has been proposed based upon patho-anatomical features. Therapeutic options at present are limited but promising new modalities are being explored.