Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 31, 2026

Identifying Coronary Artery Calcification on Non-gated Computed Tomography Scans
Published on: August 28, 2018
Mitral Annulus Calcification
Yigal Abramowitz1, Hasan Jilaihawi1, Tarun Chakravarty1
1Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, California.
Abstract:
Mitral annulus calcification (MAC) is a chronic, degenerative process in the fibrous base of the mitral valve. Although MAC was initially thought to be an age-related degenerative process, there is accumulating evidence that other mechanisms, such as atherosclerosis and abnormal calcium-phosphorus metabolism, also contribute to the development of MAC. Despite its frequency, the clinical relevance of MAC is grossly underappreciated. Indeed, MAC is associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease, mitral valve disease, arrhythmias, and mortality. MAC also influences the outcomes of cardiac surgery and interventions, and its clinical relevance may well increase substantially in the forthcoming era of transcatheter mitral valve replacement. In this paper, we review the available published data to provide a consistent, clinically relevant description of MAC on the basis of contemporary imaging. We describe the pathophysiological mechanisms contributing to the formation of MAC and the clinical implications of this disease entity.
Insights
Mitral annulus calcification (MAC) is a common heart condition linked to increased cardiovascular risks. Understanding its mechanisms and clinical impact is crucial for patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Valvular Heart Disease
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Mitral annulus calcification (MAC) is a chronic, degenerative process affecting the mitral valve's fibrous base.
- Initially considered age-related, MAC development is increasingly linked to atherosclerosis and calcium-phosphorus metabolism.
- The clinical significance of MAC is often underestimated despite its prevalence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a clinically relevant description of MAC using contemporary imaging.
- To elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying MAC formation.
- To outline the clinical implications of MAC in cardiovascular disease management.
Main Methods:
- Review of available published data on Mitral Annulus Calcification.
- Analysis of contemporary imaging techniques for MAC assessment.
- Synthesis of information on pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical relevance.
Main Results:
- MAC is associated with higher rates of cardiovascular disease, mitral valve disease, arrhythmias, and mortality.
- MAC impacts outcomes of cardiac surgery and interventions.
- Clinical relevance of MAC is expected to grow with advancements like transcatheter mitral valve replacement.
Conclusions:
- MAC is a significant clinical entity with broad cardiovascular implications.
- Understanding MAC's pathophysiology and clinical impact is essential for improving patient care.
- Contemporary imaging provides a basis for a consistent clinical description of MAC.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management
Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction
Mitral Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction

