Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 30, 2026
08:43
Calcification of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Imaging of Aortic Calcification and Inflammation
Published on: May 31, 2016
Mitral annulus calcification--a window to diffuse atherosclerosis of the vascular system
1Department of Cardiology, The Sheingarten Echocardiography Unit, Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Campus, Petah Tiqva, Israel.
Atherosclerosis
|February 27, 2001
Summary
Mitral annulus calcification (MAC) is a degenerative heart condition. Studies suggest MAC is a form of atherosclerosis, linked to increased risk of cardiovascular events and arterial stenosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pathology
Background:
- Mitral annulus calcification (MAC) is a degenerative process affecting the mitral valve.
- MAC is more prevalent in women and the elderly, associated with traditional atherosclerotic risk factors.
- Patients with MAC exhibit higher rates of cardiac abnormalities and cardiovascular events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize evidence supporting the theory that MAC is a manifestation of atherosclerosis.
- To highlight the association between MAC and atherosclerotic disease in other vascular beds.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical studies examining the association between MAC and atherosclerotic phenomena.
- Analysis of prevalence of aortic atheroma, carotid, coronary, and peripheral artery stenosis in MAC patients.
- Measurement of beta2-Glycoprotein I antibodies in relation to MAC thickness.
Main Results:
- Patients with MAC showed a higher prevalence of aortic atheroma and increased atheroma thickness.
- Increased prevalence of carotid, coronary, and peripheral artery stenosis was observed in MAC patients.
- Higher levels of beta2-Glycoprotein I antibodies were found in patients with significant MAC (≥5 mm).
Conclusions:
- The findings support the hypothesis that MAC is a form of atherosclerosis.
- MAC identifies a patient group with a higher prevalence of multi-vessel atherosclerotic disease.
- MAC itself may represent an atherosclerotic process, warranting further investigation.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction
IntroductionThe mitral valve, one of the heart's four valves, regulates blood flow. These valves have flaps that open and close to direct blood properly through the heart and body. During each heartbeat, the flaps open for blood to pass through and seal shut to prevent backflow. Specifically, the mitral valve opens to allow blood flow from the heart's upper left chamber to the lower left chamber. It then closes securely as the lower left chamber contracts to pump blood to the body, preventing...
01:22Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management
IntroductionA range of clinical features characterizes Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP), but it is important to note that many individuals with MVP are asymptomatic and may remain so throughout their lives. For those who do exhibit symptoms, the following are the key clinical features:Palpitations: This is a common symptom where individuals feel an irregular or rapid heartbeat. Palpitations in MVP are often due to arrhythmias such as premature ventricular contractions or supraventricular tachycardia.
01:22Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Stenosis (MVS) is a heart condition where the mitral valve narrows, impeding blood circulation from the left atrium to the left ventricle. The etiology and pathophysiology of this condition are multifaceted, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular complications.Causes of Mitral Valve StenosisRheumatic Heart Disease: It is the main cause of mitral valve stenosis, particularly in developing nations. This condition arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness resulting from...
01:23Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests
Mitral stenosis is a heart condition in which the mitral valve, which allows blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle, becomes narrowed or stenotic. This narrowing hinders blood flow and leads to clinical symptoms requiring specific medical evaluations and management strategies. The following overview outlines the clinical symptoms, assessments, diagnostic findings, prevention methods, and treatments for mitral stenosis.Clinical ManifestationsDyspnea (shortness of breath): This...
01:22Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
01:30Atherosclerosis I: Introduction
Atherosclerosis is a progressive disorder characterized by the buildup of plaques on the arterial inner wall, causing them to narrow and harden over time. These plaques comprise lipids, calcium, blood components, carbohydrates, and fibrous tissue. The process primarily affects the intima of large and medium-sized arteries, reducing blood flow in any artery.Etiology and risk factorsThe cause of atherosclerosis is multifactorial, involving a complex interplay among endothelial injury, lipid...