Mitral anular calcification in chronic renal failure.

In order to determine the incidence and pathogenesis of mitral anular calcification (MAC) in chronic renal failure, we analyzed biochemical, hemodynamic and echocardiographic data in 168 patients on long-term hemodialysis. Mitral anular calcification is more common in patients with chronic renal failure than in other patients of similar age. Its pathogenesis appears to be due to abnormal calcium-phosphorus homeostasis in the setting of secondary hyperparathyroidism. Hypertension did not appear to be an important etiologic factor in our patients. Meticulous control of hyperphosphatemia would appear to be the most important therapeutic measure in preventing this complication.