Changing concept in treatment of asymptomatic severe aortic stenosis and normal ejection fraction: time for biomarkers reappraisal.

ABSTRACT

The uncertainty of whether/how to treat asymptomatic patients with isolated severe aortic stenosis and normal left ventricular ejection fraction is one of the most topical in cardiovascular medicine. Recently, the AVATAR trial first ever randomized trial in the setting of aortic stenosis has been started in an attempt to adequately address this 'burning issue'. In light of this fact it is important to identify biomarkers which might help in risk stratification of these patients, not only in the referring physician's office during a routine exam, but also for preoperative patients scheduled for surgical replacement/transcatheter aortic valve implantation. This report is focusing on novel laboratory parameters which might be helpful in this risk stratification.