Pathophysiology of Aortic Stenosis and Mitral Regurgitation

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Pathology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Heart valve diseases represent a significant and escalating global health issue.
• Calcific and degenerative processes in the aortic and mitral valves are the most common causes requiring surgical intervention.
• The increasing elderly population exacerbates the prevalence and burden of these pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathophysiological changes in aortic valve stenosis (AVS) and mitral valve regurgitation (MR).
• To describe normal valve anatomy and highlight cellular/molecular features in disease progression.
• To evaluate current clinical management approaches based on published guidelines.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on pathophysiological mechanisms.
• Analysis of cellular and molecular alterations in valve disease.
• Evaluation of clinical guidelines for AVS and MR management.

Main Results:

• Aortic valve stenosis affects nearly 5% of the elderly population and presents challenges due to comorbidities.
• Mitral regurgitation impacts over 176 million people globally, with a 3% prevalence.
• The review details the progression from normal valve anatomy to pathological changes and cardiac consequences.

Conclusions:

• AVS and MR are major contributors to the global health burden, especially among the elderly.
• Understanding the detailed pathophysiology is crucial for effective management.
• Clinical management strategies should be guided by established guidelines to address these prevalent valve diseases.