Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) Practice Test

What finding on echocardiogram is indicative of aortic regurgitation?

1. Dilated left atrium

2. Thickened mitral valve

3. Left ventricular hypertrophy

4. Intraventricular septal motion

The correct answer is: Left ventricular hypertrophy

A finding on echocardiogram that indicates aortic regurgitation is left ventricular hypertrophy. This condition develops as the left ventricle adapts to the increased volume load that results from the backflow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole. In aortic regurgitation, the left ventricle has to work harder to maintain adequate forward flow and accommodate the excess blood, leading to changes such as hypertrophy, where the muscle wall thickens. The left ventricular hypertrophy is a hallmark sign because it illustrates the heart's response to volume overload. Over time, if the regurgitation is significant and untreated, the ventricular dilation can also occur as the functional capacity of the heart deteriorates. This change is critical in understanding the hemodynamic impact of aortic regurgitation on ventricular function.