[Aortic stenosis. Occurrence, pathogenesis, diagnostic strategy and therapeutic indications]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Valvular Heart Disease

Context:

• Aortic stenosis (AS) is a significant cardiovascular condition.
• Early diagnosis is essential due to favorable surgical outcomes.
• Increased awareness is needed in elderly populations and those with rheumatic fever history.

Purpose:

• To outline the incidence, pathogenesis, diagnostic strategy, and treatment indications for aortic stenosis.
• To emphasize the importance of early detection and appropriate management.

Summary:

• Suspect aortic stenosis in patients presenting with dyspnea, angina pectoris, or syncope.
• Key physical findings include a basal systolic ejection murmur radiating to the neck and diminished/absent second heart sound.
• Echocardiography is the priority diagnostic tool, complementing clinical evaluation for surgical timing.

Impact:

• Facilitates timely surgical intervention for aortic stenosis, improving patient prognosis.
• Enhances clinical recognition of aortic stenosis, particularly in at-risk demographics.
• Provides a clear diagnostic pathway, integrating clinical findings with echocardiographic data.