Mitral annulus calcification (MAC) involves calcification of which structure?

Mitral annulus calcification (MAC) involves calcification of which structure?

• A. The mitral annulus
• B. The aortic valve cusp
• C. The interventricular septum
• D. The left atrial appendage

Answer: (A)

Mitral annulus calcification involves the mitral annulus—the fibrous ring that anchors the mitral valve leaflets and connects the left atrium to the left ventricle. On echocardiography, MAC appears as a bright, dense calcified rim outlining this annular ring, often most prominent along the posterior portion. This degenerative process is common with aging and can be seen in conditions like chronic kidney disease, sometimes affecting leaflet motion and contributing to mitral valve dysfunction. It is specific to the mitral annulus and is not calcification of the aortic valve cusp, the interventricular septum, or the left atrial appendage.

Mitral annulus calcification involves the mitral annulus—the fibrous ring that anchors the mitral valve leaflets and connects the left atrium to the left ventricle. On echocardiography, MAC appears as a bright, dense calcified rim outlining this annular ring, often most prominent along the posterior portion. This degenerative process is common with aging and can be seen in conditions like chronic kidney disease, sometimes affecting leaflet motion and contributing to mitral valve dysfunction. It is specific to the mitral annulus and is not calcification of the aortic valve cusp, the interventricular septum, or the left atrial appendage.