Aortic supravalvular stenosis is a medical condition characterized by the narrowing or constriction of the aorta, a large artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body, just above the aortic valve. This narrowing restricts the blood flow from the heart, causing various health problems.
The aortic valve is responsible for the regulation of blood flow from the left ventricle, the heart's main pumping chamber, into the aorta. However, in cases of aortic supravalvular stenosis, the narrowing occurs in the ascending aorta, the section just above the aortic valve, rather than within the valve itself.
This condition can be congenital, meaning it is present at birth, or acquired later in life due to external factors such as inflammation or scarring. Congenital cases are generally caused by a genetic mutation that affects the development of the aorta during fetal development.
Symptoms of aortic supravalvular stenosis may vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may not cause any noticeable symptoms, while more severe cases can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, and irregular heartbeats.
Treatment for aortic supravalvular stenosis typically involves surgical intervention to widen the affected area of the aorta or to replace the narrowed segment with a graft or prosthetic material. Medications may also be prescribed to manage associated symptoms or complications.
It is important to diagnose and treat aortic supravalvular stenosis promptly to prevent further complications, such as heart failure, and to improve overall cardiovascular health. Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare professional are necessary to monitor the condition and adjust the
