Mitral valve regurgitation

Mitral valve regurgitation (MVR), also known as mitral insufficiency or mitral incompetence, is a condition in which the heart's mitral valve doesn't close tightly, allowing blood to flow backward in the heart. This backward flow can lead to heart muscle fatigue or heart failure.

Causes

Mitral valve regurgitation can be caused by problems with the mitral valve itself, or by other conditions that affect the function of the heart. The most common causes include mitral valve prolapse, rheumatic heart disease, endocarditis, myocardial infarction, and cardiomyopathy.

Symptoms

Symptoms of mitral valve regurgitation can vary widely, depending on the severity of the condition. Some people may have no symptoms at all, while others may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, lightheadedness, heart palpitations, swelling of the ankles and feet (edema), and congestive heart failure.

Diagnosis

Mitral valve regurgitation is usually diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests. These may include echocardiogram, cardiac MRI, chest X-ray, and electrocardiogram (ECG).

Treatment

Treatment for mitral valve regurgitation depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Options may include medication, surgery, or catheter procedures. Medications can help to reduce symptoms and slow the progression of the disease, while surgery or catheter procedures can repair or replace the damaged valve.

See also

• Heart valve
• Heart disease
• Cardiology

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