Discover the sex-specific challenges in aortic stenosis diagnosis and management with Prof Nicole Karam (European Hospital Georges Pompidou, Paris, FR).

This presentation, part of a comprehensive two-part series on complex cases in interventional cardiology, explores the critical pathophysiological differences between men and women that impact diagnostic approaches and therapeutic decision-making.

Prof Karam addresses disparities in aortic stenosis, revealing that while prevalence remains equal between sexes, women present with distinct pathophysiological characteristics including less calcification but more fibrosis, concentric rather than eccentric remodeling, and delayed symptom presentation. The discussion emphasizes how these differences affect diagnostic accuracy, particularly the challenges of discordant gradients and the need for adjusted calcium scoring thresholds in women.

Drawing from recent trial data including the NOTION-2 study, the presentation highlights trends of delayed referral and under-treatment in women despite similar disease severity. The presentation concludes with practical guidance for systematic screening and timely intervention strategies, emphasizing that sex-specific considerations are essential for optimal outcomes in contemporary aortic stenosis management.

Stay tuned for more content from the Complex Cases track of Women As One’s CLIMB® 2025 Skills Training Program.

About Women As One

Women As One is a global organization dedicated to empowering women in cardiology. They offer a variety of resources and programs, including the CLIMB Skills Training Program and the Women As One Talent Directory, a global community of women in cardiology.

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