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CT of aortic and mitral valve calcification
The Journal of the Kentucky Medical Association
|April 1, 1989
Summary
Valvular calcification, particularly aortic and mitral, is common in older adults and often degenerative. Computed tomography (CT) detects this calcification, prompting further cardiac evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Imaging
- Radiology
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Valvular calcification is a significant finding in cardiovascular disease.
- Age is a known risk factor for valvular degeneration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of aortic and mitral valvular calcification using computed tomography (CT).
- To assess the relationship between age and valvular calcification.
- To determine the potential etiology and associated conditions of valvular calcification.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 100 patients aged 40 and older who underwent routine thoracic CT scans.
- Evaluation of CT findings for aortic and mitral valve calcification.
- Correlation of calcification prevalence with patient age and medical history.
Main Results:
- Five patients showed aortic valve calcification and five showed mitral valve calcification.
- Prevalence increased with age: 36% over 70, 75% over 80.
- Nine of 10 cases appeared degenerative; one aortic calcification was in a bicuspid valve.
- CT detected calcification earlier than plain radiographs or echocardiography.
- Mitral calcification associated with mitral insufficiency, prolapse, or conduction abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- CT is effective in detecting aortic and mitral valvular calcification, especially in the elderly.
- Aortic valve calcification on CT may indicate aortic stenosis.
- Mitral valve calcification is often degenerative and linked to other valve issues.
- Further echocardiography and Doppler studies are recommended for patients with CT-detected valvular calcification.