Abstract 13179: Bicuspid Aortic Valve in African Americans is Associated with Smaller Aortic Dimensions Despite Greater Prevalence of Hypertension

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is associated with increased risk for aortic dilation, valve dysfunction and acute aortic events. Genetic causes and abnormal hemodynamic flow patterns are considered risk factors. To date, little is known about BAV in African Americans (AAs). The aim of this study was to evaluate the size of the aorta in AAs with BAV, as this may indicate genetic contributions to the susceptibility for aortic disease associated with BAV. By querying our adult ECHO database from 1998-2009 we identified 177 AA or caucasians with complete data set obtained by chart review (race, age, height, weight, hypertension, dyslipidemia, chronic kidney disease, and medication use). The most recent or last pre-surgical study was reviewed for prospective measurements of (i) aortic annulus, sinus of valsalva, sino-tubular junction, and ascending aorta 3 cm distal to the annulus, (ii) LV dimension and ejection fraction, and (iii) severity of aortic stenosis (AS) and aortic regurgitation (AR). Multiple linear re...