open dyslexic mode

Radiological Signs in Mitral Stenosis

In this high-yield cardiology and radiology lecture, Dr. G Bhanu Prakash explains the radiological signs of mitral stenosis, an important valvular disease and a frequently tested subject in USMLE Step 2 CK. Mitral stenosis, most often a consequence of rheumatic heart disease, leads to progressive obstruction of blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle, creating a characteristic set of imaging findings on chest X-ray and echocardiography.

On chest X-ray, the hallmark is left atrial enlargement, which produces several classic radiographic signs. These include straightening of the left heart border due to an enlarged left atrial appendage, splaying of the carinal angle (greater than 90°) as the enlarged left atrium pushes the main bronchi apart, and elevation of the left main bronchus. A double density sign may also be visible, where the enlarged left atrium projects over the right heart border, producing two overlapping cardiac silhouettes. In advanced cases, secondary changes such as pulmonary venous congestion, Kerley B lines, and pulmonary edema may be observed.

Echocardiography remains the diagnostic gold standard, but chest X-ray findings are highly testable and provide crucial first-line evidence of disease progression. Recognizing these signs not only aids in early detection but also helps distinguish mitral stenosis from other causes of cardiomegaly or pulmonary hypertension.

By integrating pathophysiology, radiographic anatomy, and clinical implications, this lecture equips medical students, residents, and healthcare professionals with exam-ready insights for Step 2 CK and practical application in Western clinical practice.

#MitralStenosis #RadiologySigns #USMLEStep2CK #ChestXray #CardiacImaging #ClinicalRadiology #ValvularHeartDisease #USMLEPreparation #MedicalStudentsUSA #DoctorEducation #MedicalEducationUSA #Step2CKPrep #USMLEVideos #CardiologyLecture