[Calcinosis of the mitral valve ring: echocardiography and clinical data]

The clinical and echocardiographic picture of calcinosis of the mitral valve ring is described in 40 patients (mostly females of advanced age). Echocardiographic correlates and auscultatory manifestations of mitral calcinosis are analysed. Differential diagnosis against valvular heart defects is presented. The contribution of mitral calcinosis to the development of degenerative atrioventricular and intraventricular block is discussed.