In rheumatic MS, the left atrium is usually more significantly ______ than expected for the level of stenosis.

In rheumatic MS, the left atrium is usually more significantly ______ than expected for the level of stenosis.

• A. Normal
• B. Enlarged
• C. Reduced
• D. Atrophic

Answer: (B)

Chronic rheumatic mitral stenosis creates a persistent pressure overload on the left atrium, driving remodeling and enlargement. This dilation often appears out of proportion to the measured severity of the stenosis because LA size reflects the duration and cumulative hemodynamic burden of the disease, not just the current valve area. The enlarged left atrium also raises the risk of atrial fibrillation and thrombus formation. Therefore, the left atrium is typically enlarged rather than normal, reduced, or atrophic in rheumatic MS.

Chronic rheumatic mitral stenosis creates a persistent pressure overload on the left atrium, driving remodeling and enlargement. This dilation often appears out of proportion to the measured severity of the stenosis because LA size reflects the duration and cumulative hemodynamic burden of the disease, not just the current valve area. The enlarged left atrium also raises the risk of atrial fibrillation and thrombus formation. Therefore, the left atrium is typically enlarged rather than normal, reduced, or atrophic in rheumatic MS.