In M-mode imaging, what is the characteristic finding for mitral stenosis with mitral annular calcification?

In M-mode imaging, what is the characteristic finding for mitral stenosis with mitral annular calcification?

• A. Normal annulus
• B. Thickening at the annular level
• C. Paradoxical motion of the posterior wall
• D. Aortic root dilation

Answer: (B)

Mitral annular calcification shows up on M-mode as thickening and increased echogenicity at the level of the mitral annulus. The calcified ring appears as a bright, dense line, sometimes with irregularity, indicating deposition of calcium in the fibrous annulus. This annular thickening can contribute to reduced annular mobility and help explain the associated mitral stenosis. The other findings described would not specifically reflect annular calcification: a normal annulus lacks calcific thickening, paradoxical motion of the posterior wall points to a wall-motion abnormality not tied to MAC, and aortic root dilation involves a different structure altogether.

Mitral annular calcification shows up on M-mode as thickening and increased echogenicity at the level of the mitral annulus. The calcified ring appears as a bright, dense line, sometimes with irregularity, indicating deposition of calcium in the fibrous annulus. This annular thickening can contribute to reduced annular mobility and help explain the associated mitral stenosis. The other findings described would not specifically reflect annular calcification: a normal annulus lacks calcific thickening, paradoxical motion of the posterior wall points to a wall-motion abnormality not tied to MAC, and aortic root dilation involves a different structure altogether.