Image: "Mitral Valve Prolapse" by Patrick J. Lynch, medical illustrator, is licensed under CC BY 2.5. Link to the source.

Mitral valve prolapse

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Definition Aetiology Pathophysiology Risk factor Sign and Symptoms Investigations Management

Definition

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a heart condition in which the two flaps of the mitral valve, which regulates blood flow between the left atrium and left ventricle, bulge back into the left atrium instead of closing tightly during the heart's squeezing phase. This allows blood to flow backward from the left ventricle into the left atrium.

Aetiology

Combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Pathophysiology

The structural abnormalities of the mitral valve and its supporting structures define mitral valve prolapse: the mitral valve becomes thickened and elongated, causing it to bulge back into the left atrium during systole of the heart rather than being tightly sealed. This causes a small amount of blood to leak back into the left atrium. If left untreated mitral regurgitation may occur.

Risk factors

A family history of MVP.
Connective tissue disorders.
Being pregnant and exposed to toxins or infections.

Sign and symptoms

Chest pain.
Palpitations.
Shortness of breath.
Dizziness.
Heart murmur: mid systolic or late systolic murmur.

Investigations

Physical examination,
24hr electrocardiogram (ECG),
Echocardiogram
Cardiac MRI

Management

Asymptomatic: no treatment needed.
If palpitation, anxiety or chest pain: beta-blockers can be given to help relieve symptoms.
If there is risk of embolism: consider anticoagulation
If a patient develops severe mitral regurgitation: surgical intervention may be considered to repair or replace the mitral valve.