Aortic Root Dilatation
Enlargement of the aortic root commonly seen in elderly patients, often associated with hypertension and connective tissue changes.
Full Definition
Aortic root dilatation refers to the progressive enlargement of the aortic root structure that commonly occurs with aging. In geriatric cardiology, this condition is frequently encountered due to age-related connective tissue degeneration, chronic hypertension, and loss of arterial elasticity. While mild dilatation may be physiologic in older adults, significant enlargement can lead to aortic regurgitation and increased cardiovascular risk. Assessment requires careful echocardiographic evaluation with age-adjusted normal values, as standard measurements may not apply to elderly populations.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from pathological aortic aneurysm; often requires age-adjusted reference ranges.
In Context
- "The echocardiogram revealed moderate aortic root dilatation consistent with the patient's advanced age and hypertensive history." — Echocardiography report
- "Age-adjusted measurements are essential when evaluating aortic root dilatation in octogenarians." — Clinical assessment guidelines