Which set of echocardiographic criteria establishes severe aortic stenosis?

• A Peak velocity greater than 5 m/s, mean gradient greater than 60 mmHg, valve area less than 0.5 cm2
• B Peak velocity greater than 3 m/s, mean gradient greater than 25 mmHg, valve area less than 1.5 cm2
• C Peak velocity greater than 2.5 m/s, mean gradient greater than 15 mmHg, valve area less than 2.0 cm2
• D Peak velocity greater than 4 m/s, mean gradient greater than 40 mmHg, valve area less than 1.0 cm2 ✓

Explanation

Severe aortic stenosis is defined by a peak transvalvular jet velocity above 4 m/s, mean pressure gradient above 40 mmHg, and aortic valve area below 1.0 cm2 by the continuity equation. Option B describes moderate stenosis, and option C describes mild stenosis. Option A represents extreme critical stenosis and is far stricter than the accepted threshold, making it a tempting overcall distractor.

Reference: Feigenbaum's Echocardiography, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.