Pathogenesis and pathophysiology of aortic valve stenosis in adults

Abstract

Aortic stenosis (AS) is themost common form of valvular heart disease. AS of degenerative etiology is predominant. It is apersistent disease associated with theactivation of 3 processes: lipid accumulation, inflammation, and calcification. Recent studies suggest that valve calcification is anactively regulated process that involves extracellular matrix remodeling, angiogenesis, and inflammation leading to bone formation. Many mechanisms and risk factors involved in thepathogenesis of AS are similar to those observed in atherosclerosis. The knowledge of these processes may play a significant role in adequate prevention and therapy of patients with AS, especially at an early stage. Copyright by Medycyna Praktyczna, Kraków 2011.