Is there evidence for statins in the treatment of aortic valve stenosis?

Abstract

Research revealed that the pathogenesis of aortic stenosis (AS) not merely comprises of a mechanical wear and tear process yet that active biological processes, similar to those of coronary artery disease are involved, a promising role for statins in disease-modifying therapy was suggested. However, recently, many prospective studies could not observe decreased progression nor regression of the disease. Here, we review the current knowledge on the pathomechanisms of AS and its similarities and differences with atherosclerosis. Moreover, we discuss whether there is still a place for statins in the treatment of particular AS patient subgroups.

Keywords: Aortic stenosis; Statins; HMG-CoA enzyme inhibitor; Coronary artery stenosis; Aortic valve surgery

Core tip: Aortic stenosis is a age-dependent and growing disease. As there are several similarities with atherosclerotic disease of other regions there are growing research on underlying pathopyhsiology. The treatment benefit of classic atherosclerosis treatment is evaluated in case of aortic valve stenosis.