Conventional AHA classification of atherosclerotic plaques adapted for MR imaging
| Type of lesion | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Type I–II | Thin plaque (<10% stenosis), with no calcification |
| Type III | Plaque with small lipid cores and no calcification |
| Type IV–Va | Plaque with a large lipid core, covered by a fibrous cap, possible small calcifications |
| Type Vb | Plaque with a lipid core or fibrotic tissue, with large calcifications |
| Type Vc | Plaque with fibrous tissue, no lipid core, possible small calcifications |
| Type VIb–VIc | Plaque with hemorrhage or thrombosis |