Aortic Valve Leaflet Calcification C5539738
A condition where calcium deposits build up on the aortic valve leaflets, often associated with aging. It can cause the valve to narrow or leak over time. Treatment may involve medications to manage symptoms or surgery to replace the damaged valve.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- I78.0
- ICD-11
- BA00.0
- Body system
- cardiovascular
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Chest discomfort
Chest discomfort or palpitations
(cardiovascular)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Exertional dyspnea
(cardiovascular)Exercise intolerance
(cardiovascular)Lower extremity swelling
(cardiovascular)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Disease management and monitoring
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Surgical aortic valve replacement
Open-heart procedure to remove the calcified native valve and implant a prosthetic valve, either mechanical or bioprosthetic. This is the definitive treatment for severe symptomatic calcific aortic valve disease with significant stenosis or regurgitation.
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR)
Minimally invasive procedure to implant a prosthetic valve through a catheter, typically inserted via the femoral artery. Indicated for high-risk or inoperable patients with severe aortic stenosis, offering faster recovery than open surgery.
Additional treatment options
Cholesterol-lowering therapy
Statin therapy to reduce progression of calcific aortic valve disease by lowering LDL cholesterol and potentially slowing valve calcification. May also include other lipid-lowering agents based on overall cardiovascular risk profile.
medicationCardiovascular risk factor modification
Comprehensive lifestyle changes including smoking cessation, blood pressure control, diabetes management, and heart-healthy diet to reduce overall cardiovascular burden and potentially slow disease progression. Regular aerobic exercise within physician guidance.
lifestyleSerial echocardiographic monitoring
Regular ultrasound imaging of the heart to track progression of valve calcification, assess valve area, and monitor left ventricular function. Frequency determined by disease severity and symptom status.
monitoringWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Aortic Valve Leaflet Calcification C5539738?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Otto CM, Nishimura RA, Bonow RO, et al. 2020 ACC/AHA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Valvular Heart Disease. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2021.
Pohost GM, Czernuszewicz G, Lacerda HL. Calcific Aortic Valve Disease: Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Approaches. Curr Cardiol Rev. 2020.
Makkar RR, Thourani VH, Mack MJ, et al. Five-Year Outcomes of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement or Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement for High Surgical Risk Patients With Aortic Stenosis. Lancet. 2018.
Tan W, Madhur M, Abraham TP. Aortic Valve Replacement Versus Conservative Management in Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Ann Thorac Surg. 2022.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Aortic Valve Leaflet Calcification C5539738. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy