Aortic stenosis
Narrowing of the aortic valve opening that restricts blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta during systole.
Full Definition
Aortic stenosis is a valvular heart disease characterized by progressive narrowing of the aortic valve orifice, leading to obstruction of left ventricular outflow during systolic contraction. The condition can be congenital (bicuspid aortic valve), degenerative (calcific aortic stenosis in elderly patients), or rheumatic in origin. As the stenosis progresses, the left ventricle compensates by developing concentric hypertrophy to maintain cardiac output against the increased afterload. Classic symptoms include exertional dyspnea, chest pain, and syncope, often developing when the valve area becomes severely reduced. Echocardiography is the primary diagnostic tool, measuring valve area, pressure gradients, and left ventricular function. Severe symptomatic aortic stenosis requires valve replacement, either surgical or transcatheter (TAVR).
Usage
Usage note: Distinguished from aortic sclerosis, which involves valve thickening without significant stenosis.
In Context
- "Echocardiography revealed severe aortic stenosis with a valve area of 0.8 cm² and mean gradient of 55 mmHg." — Echocardiogram report
- "The patient's symptoms of exertional dyspnea were attributed to progression of his aortic stenosis." — Cardiology follow-up note