Value of radiographic evidence of calcification of the aortic valve in adults with basal systolic ejection murmurs.

Severe aortic stenosis is an important, remediable and surgically correctable cause of symptoms and death. Diagnosis in adults and differentiation from minor degrees may be difficult. Aortic valve calcification visible on radiography or fluoroscopy is a sensitive but relatively nonspecific marker for the presence of critical aortic stenosis in patients with angina, dyspnoea or syncope. In 97% of patients with critical aortic stenosis analysed calcification was detected.