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Calcific aortic stenosis (AS) is a progressive form of valvular heart disease for which no preventive therapies exist. Like atherosclerosis, calcific AS is mediated by inflammation. Observational data have suggested that statins might be able to curb AS progression (Journal Watch Cardiology Dec 3 2004). Now, in a partially manufacturer-supported randomized trial from Scotland, 155 patients (mean age, 68; 70% men) with calcific AS and aortic-jet velocities of at least 2.5 m/s (mean, 3.4 m/s) received either atorvastatin (80 mg/day) or placebo.
During a median follow-up of 25 months, LDL levels remained virtually unchanged in the placebo group but dropped by 53% in the atorvastatin group. However, each group experienced an annual increase in a…