Echo Conclusions: Can anyone help? - Heart Disorders Message Board

bjbattista25 · 02-13-2006, 05:14 PM

Hi everyone...I am new to this board...I am usually on the thyroid one...I find so much useful information and support from these boards I was hoping I could get some more for this....I've been having palpatations, had my 24 hour holter put on and then sent for and echo...the results read;

1. Arotic root and valvular sclerosis with trace aortic insufficiency
2. Structurally normal mitral valve with trace mitral regurgitation
3. Normal Chamber Size
4. Normal left ventricular function
5. Trace tricuspid regurgitation

Aortic Valve

Root diameter 2.9

Ejection Fraction 60%

I was wondering if these are normal finding or markers of some sort for underlying condition...they also told me my LDL is 119

Any help would be greatly appreciated ...thanks
take care, Bernie

jenn.e · 02-13-2006, 07:20 PM

Hi there,
I can tell you the little that I do know but hopefully someone can come along and fill in the blanks.

1. Arotic root and valvular sclerosis with trace aortic insufficiency
Dont know

2. Structurally normal mitral valve with trace mitral regurgitation
This is a pretty common thing that needs to be checked out every year or so to make sure it doesnt get too bad.

3. Normal Chamber Size
Great

4. Normal left ventricular function
Greater!

5. Trace tricuspid regurgitation
Aortic Valve
Root diameter 2.9
Not sure either

Ejection Fraction 60%- Perfect

started04 · 02-14-2006, 09:29 AM

QUOTE: 1. Arotic root and valvular sclerosis with trace aortic insufficiency
2. Structurally normal mitral valve with trace mitral regurgitation

The range for a "normal" aortic root is 3.3 to 4.4 mm. There is an indication of some buildup of lipids and calcuim and possibly hardening of the tissue in the area of the valve and the beginning of the aorta.

A reduced size of root and valve can/will increase the pressure within the LV resulting to an increase in LV size. If the LV enlarges, it could cause an increase of regurgitation of LV valves (aorta and mital). Additionally, a large LV will compromise pumping efficiciency with a loss of contractility. If this happens, it would provide insufficient blood in circulation to meet demand and cause a drop in EF to a range below 29%. Worst-case scenario.

Your EF and and chamber size are normal so there is no advanced condition, and you are OK. If the sclerosis becomes worse, an operation can correct the problem.

bjbattista25 · 02-14-2006, 10:09 AM

Thanks so much for your help...I am also going to see a surgeon for thyroid removal on friday...I am concerned that this is something the surgeon should know...I am also concerned about the possible cause of this...is it my cholesterol or maybe something thyroid related...it is so hard to find answers from borderline labs...sometimes I feel I an not asking the right questions to my Doctors... I have a list of symptoms...and gut feelings but nothing has been conclusive....is it right to be concerned that these are valid warnings of things that can be prevented...feeling very confused and wondering if I am worrying to much...I'm glad these boards are here for support...you guys are great! take care, Bernie

forgot to ask...is this something that can reverse itself and get better?

started04 · 02-15-2006, 12:01 PM

"forgot to ask...is this something that can reverse itself and get better"?

The plaque buildup causing stenosis of the aorta root and valves is not unlike plaque blocking arteries. The most likely cause is diet, age, heritage. It can't be reversed, but treatment (if necessary) and lifestyle change may stop the progression.

Depending on the condition treatment can be done with a minimally invasive procedure.