American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

Asymptomatic patients with moderate aortic regurgitation should undergo echocardiography how often?

1. Annually

2. Every 1 to 2 years

3. Every 3 to 5 years

4. Only when symptomatic

The correct answer is: Every 1 to 2 years

Asymptomatic patients with moderate aortic regurgitation should undergo echocardiography every 1 to 2 years to monitor the condition. This recommendation is based on guidelines that emphasize the importance of semi-regular cardiac evaluation in order to detect any changes in cardiac function or the severity of regurgitation that might necessitate intervention. Moderate aortic regurgitation can progress over time, and regular echocardiographic assessments allow for timely identification of any deterioration in left ventricular function or the development of symptoms. By scheduling these evaluations every 1 to 2 years, healthcare providers can ensure that any indication requiring surgical intervention is addressed promptly, particularly since patients may remain asymptomatic even when the hemodynamic burden on the heart is increasing. In contrast, less frequent evaluations, such as every 3 to 5 years or only when symptomatic, may delay detection of important changes and compromise patient care. Therefore, the strategy of biennial echocardiography strikes a balance between surveillance and resource utilization while prioritizing patient safety and effective management.