Related Experiment Video

Updated: Apr 26, 2026

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance for the Evaluation of Suspected Cardiac Thrombus: Conventional and Emerging Techniques
06:29

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance for the Evaluation of Suspected Cardiac Thrombus: Conventional and Emerging Techniques

Published on: June 11, 2019

10.4K

A calcified left ventricular mass

Sander Trenson, Michel de Ceuninck

    Acta Cardiologica
    |July 18, 2014
    PubMed

    Insights

    Mitral annular calcification, a degenerative heart condition, is usually asymptomatic but can predict serious cardiovascular events and stroke. Extensive calcification may liquefy but rarely requires surgery.

    Area of Science:

    • Cardiology
    • Degenerative Cardiovascular Processes

    Background:

    • Mitral annular calcification (MAC) is a common degenerative process affecting the heart's mitral valve annulus.
    • While often asymptomatic, MAC can have significant clinical implications.

    Observation:

    • Extensive mitral annular calcification can mimic intracardiac tumors, posing diagnostic challenges.
    • The calcification process may involve liquefaction in advanced stages.

    Findings:

    • Mitral annular calcification is a strong predictor of cardiovascular events, including cardiovascular death and overall mortality.
    • It is associated with a twofold increase in stroke risk.
    • Surgery for MAC is infrequently required.

    Implications:

    • Early identification and monitoring of MAC are crucial for risk stratification.
    • Understanding MAC's predictive power aids in managing patients at risk for cardiovascular events and stroke.
    • Further research into the mechanisms of MAC liquefaction may offer new therapeutic insights.

    More Related Videos

    In Vivo Quantitative Assessment of Myocardial Structure, Function, Perfusion and Viability Using Cardiac Micro-computed Tomography08:13

    In Vivo Quantitative Assessment of Myocardial Structure, Function, Perfusion and Viability Using Cardiac Micro-computed Tomography

    Published on: February 16, 2016

    21.6K
    Evaluation of Left Ventricular Structure and Function using 3D Echocardiography06:34

    Evaluation of Left Ventricular Structure and Function using 3D Echocardiography

    Published on: October 28, 2020

    4.1K

    Related Concept Videos

    Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests01:23

    Mitral 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...
    550
    Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy01:29

    Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

    Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM, is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy without ventricular dilation. It is more common in men and is typically diagnosed in young, athletic adults.EtiologyHCM is primarily genetic and is caused by mutations in genes encoding sarcomeric proteins. Researchers have identified over 1400 mutations across at least 11 different genes. Among these, the most frequently occurring mutations are found in the...
    801
    Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy01:30

    Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy

    Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...
    786
    Cardiac Catheterization III: Left Heart Catheterization01:24

    Cardiac Catheterization III: Left Heart Catheterization

    Left heart catheterization is an invasive diagnostic procedure used to evaluate the function and structure of the left side of the heart. It is generally performed to diagnose and treat cardiovascular conditions such as valve abnormalities, coronary artery disease, and congenital heart defects.Diagnostic and therapeutic purposesLeft heart catheterization serves various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:Assessing coronary artery bypass grafts.Evaluating coronary artery disease in...
    1.3K
    Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction01:22

    Mitral 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...
    1.8K
    Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests01:22

    Aortic 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...
    1.1K