AS is classically associated with which valve abnormality?

• A. Tricuspid aortic valve
• B. Bicuspid aortic valve
• C. Valvular stenosis due to rheumatic disease
• D. Isolated aortic valve disease with normal valve

Answer: (B)

Aortic stenosis is classically linked to a bicuspid aortic valve. This congenital valve has only two cusps instead of the normal three, which causes abnormal flow and makes the valve prone to early calcific degeneration. As a result, stenosis often develops earlier in life compared with the typical degenerative calcification of a normal tricuspid valve seen in older adults. While rheumatic disease can cause aortic stenosis, the hallmark association asked about here is with a bicuspid aortic valve.