Ultrasound of carotid arteries belongs to non-invasive, Bafe, and comparatively inexpensive methods of the subclinical phase atherosclerosis detection. It allows identi%cation of atherosclerosis plaques, which can be found in higher numbers in elderly persons. Measurement of intima-media thickness (IMT) belongs to the time-proven methods and it represents an independent indicator of the risk of the cerebro-vascular event, coronary event including the myocardial infarction, and lower limbs ischaemic disease. In asymptomatic forms in persons over 45 years, the meticulous IMT examination can bring an additional information on the traditional risk factors, specify further the risks of cardio-vascular events, and help to elaborate the extent of preventive measures.

        Key words: internal carotid artery, arterial intima-media layers, atherosclerosis, cerebro-vascular event, ischaemic heart disease, triacylglycerols, lipid metabolism defect, diabetes mellitus.