Nodules of semilunar leaflets of aortic valve
Noduli valvularum semilunarium valvae aortae
- Synonym: Nodules of semilunar cusps of aortic valve
- Eponym: Nodules of Arantius
- Related terms: Nodules of semilunar cusps
Definition
The nodules of the semilunar leaflets of the aortic valve (nodules of Arantius) are small, fibrous thickenings located at the center of the free edge of each of the three aortic valve leaflets (cusps), essential for effective leaflet coaptation and valve competence, and are continuous with the fibrosa layer.
The free and attached margins of each semilunar cusp of the aortic valve are strengthened by tendinous fibers, and the former presents, at its middle, a thickened nodule (corpus Arantii). From this nodule tendinous fibers radiate through the segment to its attached margin, but are absent from two narrow crescentic portions, the lunulæ, placed one on either side of the nodule immediately adjoining the free margin.
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