Normal and pathological cardiac aging. Apropos of an exceptional case of longevity]

Born in Arles on February 21st 1875, Madame J. C. was the oldest registered human being. She died on August 4th 1997 at the age of 122 years, the record for longevity probably for a long moment. Based on this unique case and a review of the literature, the authors describe the mechanical, physiological and clinical aspects of normal cardiac ageing. The diseases of the elderly which accelerate the process of physiological ageing are then reviewed. With its participation in left ventricular hypertrophy, left atrial dilatation and the increase in valvular stress, the decreased elasticity of the great arteries seems to be the essential factor.