DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Heart Valve Disease
Structural abnormalities of one or more heart valves (aortic, mitral, tricuspid, pulmonic) causing stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage). Can be congenital or acquired. Aortic stenosis most common in elderly; rheumatic heart disease prevalent in developing countries.
100.0M
111
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Echocardiogram (transthoracic/TEE)
- 2Cardiac MRI
- 3Cardiac CT
- 4Cardiac catheterization
- 5Chest X-ray
- 6ECG
- 7Exercise testing
Prognosis
Severe symptomatic aortic stenosis: 50% 2-year mortality without intervention. With valve replacement, life expectancy normalizes. Bioprosthetic valves last 10-15 years; mechanical valves require lifelong anticoagulation.
Prevention
- Prompt streptococcal infection treatment
- Rheumatic fever prophylaxis
- Endocarditis prophylaxis
- Regular dental care
- Blood pressure control
- Regular cardiac screening
Research Status
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR/TAVI) revolutionized aortic stenosis treatment. MitraClip for secondary mitral regurgitation. Self-expanding transcatheter valves. 3D printing for surgical planning. Tissue-engineered valves in development.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.heart.org
- https://www.cdc.gov/
- https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.