Abnormal valve structure or function is often characterized by what on echocardiography?

Abnormal valve structure or function is often characterized by what on echocardiography?

• A. Uneven (asymmetric) cusps
• B. Eccentric closure of valve
• C. Eccentric valves
• D. Normal closure

Answer: (A)

Uneven (asymmetric) cusps on echocardiography indicate abnormal valve structure. When leaflets have unequal size or motion due to structural changes like scarring, calcification, fusion, or congenital morphology (such as bicuspid valves), the coaptation becomes asymmetric rather than symmetric. Normal valves coapt evenly in the center; thus, asymmetric cusps point to a structural abnormality. Categories describing off-center closure or “eccentric” appearance can occur with various problems but do not specifically reflect leaflet asymmetry as a structural hallmark, and normal closure implies no abnormality.

Uneven (asymmetric) cusps on echocardiography indicate abnormal valve structure. When leaflets have unequal size or motion due to structural changes like scarring, calcification, fusion, or congenital morphology (such as bicuspid valves), the coaptation becomes asymmetric rather than symmetric. Normal valves coapt evenly in the center; thus, asymmetric cusps point to a structural abnormality. Categories describing off-center closure or “eccentric” appearance can occur with various problems but do not specifically reflect leaflet asymmetry as a structural hallmark, and normal closure implies no abnormality.