AS calcification is a result of aging. True or False?

AS calcification is a result of aging. True or False?

• A. False
• B. Depends on lifestyle
• C. Unknown
• D. True

Answer: (D)

Calcific aortic stenosis in older adults is driven by age-related degenerative changes of the valve. Over time, the aortic cusps accumulate calcium deposits, become thickened and stiff, and their mobility is reduced. This progressive stiffening narrows the valve opening and increases the transvalvular gradient, which is the hallmark of stenosis. Because the likelihood of this degenerative calcification rises with age, the statement is true, especially in the elderly. There are exceptions worth noting: congenital bicuspid valves can calcify earlier, and rheumatic disease can cause stenosis through different mechanisms. But in the typical aging population, calcification from degeneration is the primary driver of aortic stenosis.

Calcific aortic stenosis in older adults is driven by age-related degenerative changes of the valve. Over time, the aortic cusps accumulate calcium deposits, become thickened and stiff, and their mobility is reduced. This progressive stiffening narrows the valve opening and increases the transvalvular gradient, which is the hallmark of stenosis. Because the likelihood of this degenerative calcification rises with age, the statement is true, especially in the elderly.

There are exceptions worth noting: congenital bicuspid valves can calcify earlier, and rheumatic disease can cause stenosis through different mechanisms. But in the typical aging population, calcification from degeneration is the primary driver of aortic stenosis.