Aortic Stenosis vs Sclerosis

[Beezlebub]

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Definition:

Sclerosis = thickening of valve
Stenosis = narrowing of valve

However, from my POV, if a valve is thickened wouldn't it also become narrow?

 

[Instatewaiter]

If the valve is calcified/thickened it still may open well. So it may be thickened but doesn't have elevated gradients (ie no stenosis)- then it is sclerotic.

If it is narrowed (whether or not calcified) it is stenotic. This stenosis causes elevated gradients across the valve and therefore obstruction to flow. With sclerosis there is minimal if any obstruction to flow.

 

[Phloston]

Definition:

Sclerosis = thickening of valve
Stenosis = narrowing of valve

However, from my POV, if a valve is thickened wouldn't it also become narrow?

Stenosis suggests more of a fixed, permanent reduction in diameter. Sclerosis implies a hardening process with a resultant attenuation of valve movement, with the net result being flow is reduced in both scenarios.

That's not textbook. That's just off the top of my head. But I'm fond of that reasoning enough.