What is the evidence that mitral annular calcification is associated with increased risk of thromboembolism?
The cumulative evidence does not support a causal association between mitral annular calcification and increased risk of thromboembolism. Similarly, there is no conclusive evidence supporting a causal association between native aortic valve disease and increased risk of stroke or TIA. Additional distinct valvular lesions such as Libman-Sacks or bicuspid aortic valves have been associated with increased risk of thromboembolism, although no properly designed trial has addressed the optimal therapeutic strategy to prevent ischemic stroke or TIA in these specific conditions. Therefore, no specific management recommendations can be made for these conditions.