Description The mitral valve se...
Description
The mitral valve separates the upper and lower chambers on the left side of the heart (left atrium and left ventricle). The valve opens allowing blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle and then closes preventing blood from flowing backward. The mitral valve consists of two leaflets and prolapse occurs when these leaflets do not close properly and may allow some blood to backflow. It is more common in young to middle age women. Most people do not experience any symptoms. With severe prolapse, backflow of blood (mitral regurgitation) may cause symptoms.
Symptoms
Usually none. Palpitations and/or chest pain. With significant mitral regurgitation, shortness of breath, fatigue and decreased exercise tolerance may occur.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. An echocardiogram establishes the diagnosis. Other tests may be done depending on the symptoms.
Tests:
Cardiac catheterization, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Echocardiogram (ECHO), Electrocardiogram (EKG), Troponin, Ultrasound, Chest X-ray
Do I need this test?
Don't perform echocardiography as routine follow-up for mild, asymptomatic native valve disease in adult patients with no change in signs or symptoms. Patients with native valve disease usually have years without symptoms before the onset of deterioration. An echocardiogram is not recommended yearly unless there is a change in clinical status.
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. An echocardiogram establishes the diagnosis. Other tests may be done depending on the symptoms.
Tests:
Cardiac catheterization, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Echocardiogram (ECHO), Electrocardiogram (EKG), Troponin, Ultrasound, Chest X-ray
Do I need this test?
Don't perform echocardiography as routine follow-up for mild, asymptomatic native valve disease in adult patients with no change in signs or symptoms. Patients with native valve disease usually have years without symptoms before the onset of deterioration. An echocardiogram is not recommended yearly unless there is a change in clinical status.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Cardiology
Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Cardiology
Treatment
Usually no treatment is necessary. Beta blockers can reduce palpitations. For severe mitral regurgitation, surgery will likely be needed to repair or replace the valve.